A Study of the Multicache-Consistency Problem in Multi-Processor Computer Systems
Abstract
This paper is a report on an ongoing research project at the M.I.T. Sloan School of Management to study the multicache-consistency problem in multi- processor computer systems. The nature of the consistency problem in multicache memory systems is briefly discussed, together with an explanation of the three common approaches proposed in the literature to handle it. A new solution to the problem, called the 'Common-Cache/Pended Transaction Bus' (CC/PTB) approach, is developed and discussed. The 'CC/PTB' approach attempts to minimize performance degradation by eliminating the overhead of maintaining cache-consistency. Its two distinctive features are: Firstly, the conventional private cache per processor organization is replaced by one where a pool of cache-modules is commonly shared by all processors. Secondly, the Pended Transaction Bus (PTB) is used as the interconnection protocol that connects the processors and the cache- modules. The performance of the CC/PTB approach is evaluated using a highly detailed simulation model with favorable results. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA109134
Entities
People
- Stuart E. Madnick
- Tarek K. Abdel-hamid