Method and apparatus for improved aligned/misaligned data load from cache

摘要

An apparatus and method for loading aligned/misaligned data from a cache within a microprocessor is provided. The apparatus contains a first ALU for generating a partial offset, alignment check logic for quickly estimating the alignment of the data, a second ALU for generating a linear address, and alignment confirmation logic for confirming the alignment of the data. Quick estimation of data alignment allows the load of data to proceed before full alignment calculations are completed. A mandatory slip during data alignment checking is eliminated.