Abstract: Data can be stored in a multi-level cache hierarchy memory system by, for example, storing valid data associated with a cacheline in a primary location in a first cache memory location. The first cache memory also stores location information about an alternative location in a second cache memory associated with the cacheline. Space is allocated in the alternative location of the second cache memory to store data associated with the cacheline.

Abstract: A placement policy enables the selective storage of cachelines in a multi-level cache hierarchy: Reuse behavior of a cacheline is tracked during execution of an application in both a first level cache memory and a second level cache memory. A cache placement policy for the cacheline is determined based on the tracked reuse behavior.

Abstract: Methods and systems for in direct data access in, e.g., multi-level cache memory systems are described. A cache memory system includes a cache location buffer configured to store cache location entries, wherein each cache location entry includes an address tag and a cache location table which are associated with a respective cacheline stored in a cache memory. The system also includes a first cache memory configured to store cachelines, each cacheline having data and an identity of a corresponding cache location entry in the cache location buffer, and a second cache memory configured to store cachelines, each cacheline having data and an identity of a corresponding cache location entry in the cache location buffer. Responsive to a memory access request for a cacheline, the cache location buffer generates access information using one of the cache location tables which enables access to the cacheline without performing a tag comparison at the one of the first and second cache memories.

Abstract: Methods and systems which, for example, reduce energy usage in cache memories are described. Cache location information regarding the location of cachelines which are stored in a tracked portion of a memory hierarchy is stored in a cache location table. Address tags are stored with corresponding location information in the cache location table to associate the address tag with the cacheline and its cache location information. When a cacheline is moved to a new location in the memory hierarchy, the cache location table is updated so that the cache location information indicates where the cacheline is located within the memory hierarchy.