Abstract: Methods and apparatus to perform efficient branch prediction operations are described. In one embodiment, branch prediction may be performed by utilizing a combination of a bimodal predictor, a plurality of global predictors, and a loop predictor. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: Method, apparatus, and system for tracking call returns. At least one embodiment maps the locations of a return instruction pointer within a speculative return stack buffer and a committed return stack buffer to determine a return stack buffers from which the return instruction pointer should be retrieved.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and system for staging the data output from an addressable memory location as a plurality of fields. In embodiments, each field of a data item that is stored at an address may be output during a different clock cycle. In further embodiments, the most time critical field may be output first.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and system for staging the data output from an addressable memory location as a plurality of fields. In embodiments, each field of a data item that is stored at an address may be output during a different clock cycle. In further embodiments, the most time critical field may be output first.

Abstract: Systems and methods of predicting instruction branches provide for independent checking predictions and dynamic next-line predictions. Next-line predictions may also have a latency that is a plurality of clock cycles, where the next line predictions include group predictions. Each group prediction includes a plurality of target addresses corresponding to their plurality of clock cycles. The plurality of target addresses can include a leaf target and one or more intermediate targets, where the leaf target defines a target address of the group prediction.