Dynamic, non-linear cache architecture for power-sensitive mobile processors

Abstract

Today, mobile smartphones are expected to be able to run the same complex, algorithm-heavy, memory-intensive applications that were originally designed and coded for general-purpose processors. All the while, it is also expected that these mobile processors be power-conscientious as well as of minimal area impact. These devices pose unique usage demands of ultra-portability, but also demand an always-on, continuous data access paradigm. As a result, this dichotomy of continuous execution versus long battery life poses a difficult challenge. This paper explores a novel approach to mitigating mobile processor power consumption, with a non-linear degradation in execution speed. The concept relies on using dynamic application memory behavior to intelligently target adjustments in the cache to significantly reduce overall processor power, taking into account both the dynamic and leakage power footprint of the cache subsystem. The simulation results show a significant reduction in power consumption of approximately 16% to 19%, while only incurring a nominal increase in execution time and area.