Dynamic Branch Prediction Study Combining Perceptrons and Bit-Counter Predictors

Current processors use two bit counters for branch prediction; however, recent literature has established that the perceptron learning algorithm, a supervised learning technique, render more accurate predictions. We attempt to integrate both approaches to improve prediction accuracy through four hybrid predictors based on the 2bc-gskew predictor. In all configurations, a single perceptron predictor is still more accurate leading to an analysis of how the technologies behind perceptrons and bit counters interact.