Mapping and logic for combining l1 and l2 directories and/or arrays

Abstract

Architectures, methods and systems are presented which combine a multiple of directories (e. g. Land Ldirectory) into a single directory, while still allowing the individual levels to use their own organization which is best for overall performance. This integration is performed without compromising the organization at each level. With some small additions to the Ldirectory, it is used simultaneously to perform both the Land Ldirectory functions. Additionally, the same organizational structure allows the Larray to serve both as a traditional Land simultaneous Larray. In one aspect of the present invention an architecture is provided for a first and second level memory hierarchy, or cache, including a first data storage array for the first level memory hierarchy; a second data storage array for the second level memory hierarchy, a single address translation directory combining the directories for the first and second level memory hierarchy into a single directory satisfying the organization requirements of both the first and second level memory hierarchy. Also provided is a system having three level memory hierarchy comprising: a single combined directory used to serve each of three separate storage arrays. Each of the storage arrays serves a respective level of the three level memory hierarchy wherein the organization of the various levels is not compromised by the use of the single combined directory.