Split history tables for branch prediction

Details Split history tables for branch prediction Split history tables for branch prediction

2005-08-09

2005-08-09

Coleman, Eric (Department: 2183)

Electrical computers and digital processing systems: processing

Processing control

Branching

Reexamination Certificate

active

06928537

ABSTRACT:
An apparatus and method are provided for accurately predicting the outcome of branch instructions prior to their execution by a pipeline microprocessor. The apparatus includes a first table, a second table, and selection logic. The first table stores branch histories for a first set of branch instructions where the first set, when executed, exhibits a bias toward a first outcome. The second table stores second branch histories for a second set of branch instructions, where, the second set, when executed, exhibits a bias toward a second outcome. The selection logic is coupled to the first and second tables. The selection logic selects a particular branch history from either of the first or second tables. Thus, a branch prediction is made based upon contents of a branch history that is selected from a table containing branch histories for other branch instructions that exhibit the same outcome tendency as the particular branch instruction, thereby reducing the negative effects of aliasing.

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