基于SimpleScalar的动态分支预测器研究

摘要

The precision of branch predictor is one of the most important parameters which influence the performance of processors. It has been one of the hottest research areas in both academic circles and industrial circles during the past decade. To provide a reference for design of dynamic branch predictor in processors, SimpleScalar is used to simulate, test and analyze some kinds of widely used dynamic branch predictors with SPEC CPU2000 test suite. The results are presented in precision and instruction per cycle, and together with hardware resource expenses, give a complete analysis and classification of suitable situation for different dynamic branch predictor.%分支预测精度是影响当代处理器性能的重要指标,在近十年内一直是学术界和工业界的研究热点.为给不同应用场合的处理器动态分支预测器设计提供性能参考,针对处理器架构设计中应用广泛的几种动态分支预测器,使用SPECCPU2000在SimpleScalar模拟器中进行仿真及测试分析.测试结果以预测精度和指令/时钟周期作为指标,并结合硬件开销,分析了不同种类分支预测器的适用对象和场合.