Method and apparatus for controlling execution of speculations in a processor based on monitoring power consumption

摘要

In accordance with one embodiment, the invention provides a method comprising monitoring a power consumption of a processor in executing a program while running in a speculative execution mode wherein instructions are speculatively executed; and turning off said speculative execution mode if said power consumption is above a predetermined threshold. According to another embodiment the invention provides a processor comprising a speculative mode wherein instructions are speculatively executed; a non-speculative execution mode wherein instructions are executed non-speculatively; and a speculation control mechanism to selectively cause said processor to operate in said non-speculative mode based on a power consumption criterion.