Abstract
In this paper we generalize the reuse distance analysis method and develop an effective and practical multi-level cache design optimization approach. We adopt a simple scanning search method to locate optimal cache solution in terms of cache size, power consumption or average data access delay. The proposed approach is particularly useful for early-phase system designers and is verified to be 150 to 250 times faster than the traditional simulation-based approach and. In addition, we also propose a simplified analytical model and provide designers insights about how cache design parameters may affect the expected results. As a result, designers can make adequate decision at early system design phase.