Scalable symmetric multiprocessor data-processing system with data allocation among private caches and segments of system memory

摘要

A scalable symmetric multiprocessor data-processing system is disclosed. The symmetric multiprocessor data-processing system includes multiple processing units and a system memory. Each of the processing units includes a cache memory for storing a subset of data contained within the system memory. A cache controller is included within each one of the processing units for controlling an associated cache memory. The cache controller contains a mode select to allow an associated cache memory to be selectively operated under either a first mode or a second mode. Furthermore, the symmetric multiprocessor data-processing system also includes a multiple of partial system memories, wherein each of the partial system memories is associated with one of the processing units such that an aggregate of contents within all of the partial system memories forms the system memory.