Dynamic source code analysis for memory hierarchy optimization in multimedia applications

Realizing image and signal processing algorithms in embedded systems is a three step process including algorithmic design, implementation and mapping to a target architecture and memory hierarchy. This paper presents MemAddIn, a dynamic analysis tool for C applications that exposes the critical application´s loops which deserve the designer´s attention for memory hierarchy optimization. MemAddIn is based on an extension of MEMSCOPT compiler and integrates in the Visual Studio IDE offering a unified environment for the application´s implementation and optimization. To conclude on the criticality of the application loops the tool utilizes two metrics which are relevant with the underlying memory architecture cost and performance.