Intel Corporation
Multi-level system memory with near memory capable of storing compressed cache lines

Abstract:

A method is described. The method includes receiving a read or write request for a cache line. The method includes directing the request to a set of logical super lines based on the cache line's system memory address. The method includes associating the request with a cache line of the set of logical super lines. The method includes, if the request is a write request: compressing the cache line to form a compressed cache line, breaking the cache line down into smaller data units and storing the smaller data units into a memory side cache. The method includes, if the request is a read request: reading smaller data units of the compressed cache line from the memory side cache and decompressing the cache line.