Cross-Layer Techniques for Optimizing Systems Utilizing Memories with Asymmetric Access Characteristics

Non-volatile memory technologies promise a variety of advantages for memory architectures of next generation computing systems. However, these capabilities come at the cost of some inefficiencies governing the operation of these memories. The most well understood is the asymmetry of access. In order to most effectively take advantage of the benefits of these memory technologies in terms of density and reduced static power in systems while mitigating access complexity an one-size fits all method is not sufficient for all types of applications. Instead, cross-layer techniques that include the compiler, operating system, and hardware layer can extract characteristics from the application that can be used to deliver the highest possible performance while minimizing power consumption for systems using these memories.