What is cache throughput and why is it important?

What is cache throughput and why is it important?

Cache throughput refers to the rate at which data is successfully read from or written to the cache memory. It's crucial because it affects the overall performance of a system, especially in data-intensive applications.

How does cache size affect throughput?

Larger cache sizes can improve throughput by reducing the number of cache misses, allowing more data to be stored closer to the CPU for faster access.

What factors can limit cache throughput?

Factors include cache architecture, the speed of the memory bus, the efficiency of the cache algorithms, and the workload characteristics.

Can you explain the difference between cache hit and cache miss?

A cache hit occurs when the data requested by the CPU is found in the cache, leading to faster access. A cache miss happens when the data is not in the cache, requiring a slower fetch from main memory.

What are some strategies to improve cache throughput?

Strategies include optimizing cache size, using better cache replacement policies, and improving data locality in applications.