Local instruction loop buffer utilizing execution unit register file

摘要

A method utilizes a register file of an execution unit as a local instruction loop buffer to enable suitable algorithms, such as DSP algorithms, to be fetched and executed directly within the execution unit, and often enabling other logic circuits utilized for other, general purpose workloads to either be powered down or freed up to handle other workloads.

主权项

1. A method of executing instructions in a processing unit of the type including an execution unit including a register file and instruction decode logic including an instruction buffer, the method comprising:
fetching a first plurality of instructions from an instruction stream and stored in the instruction buffer with the instruction decode logic of the processing unit; in response to at least one instruction from the instruction stream, causing the execution unit to manipulate operand data stored in the register file; in response to at least one instruction from the instruction stream, loading a second plurality of instructions into the register file of the execution unit to utilize at least a portion of the register file as a local instruction loop buffer; fetching the second plurality of instructions from the register file rather than fetching instructions stored in the instruction buffer; and causing the execution unit to execute the second plurality of instructions fetched from the register file.