Prefetching Dependent Pointer Data in Memory Controllers

The patent applies preliminary action by having the memory controller prefetch the next data object before the processor has finished processing the current data object. The memory controller detects pointer dependence patterns, determines the memory address of the next data object, and sends a load request for the next data object before the processor issues its own load request. This allows the processor to execute instructions more efficiently by having data ready in advance, thereby reducing memory latency while maintaining correct program execution order through proper dependency tracking.

The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a memory controller as a mediator between the processor and memory. The memory controller receives program instructions from the processor, detects pointer dependence patterns, determines memory addresses of next data objects, and sends enhanced load requests to prefetch data. This intermediary approach allows the processor to maintain simple instruction execution while the memory controller handles the complex prefetching logic, thereby improving processor efficiency without significantly increasing overall system complexity.

The patent applies self-service by having the memory controller autonomously detect pointer dependence patterns and determine memory addresses without requiring explicit annotations or complex analysis from the processor. The memory controller monitors load requests, identifies when a load instruction references data from a previously loaded object, and automatically determines the memory address of the next data object to prefetch. This self-service approach improves prefetching accuracy while keeping the detection mechanism relatively simple and integrated into the memory controller's existing functionality.