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JVM '01 Paper    [JVM '01 Tech Program Index]

Pp. 27–40 of the Proceedings

SableVM: A Research Framework for the Efficient Execution of Java Bytecode1

Etienne M. Gagnon and Laurie J. Hendren
Sable Research Group
School of Computer Science
McGill University
[gagnon,hendren]@sable.mcgill.ca

Abstract:

SableVM is an open-source virtual machine for Java intended as a research framework for efficient execution of Java bytecode2. The framework is essentially composed of an extensible bytecode interpreter using state-of-the-art and innovative techniques. Written in the C programming language, and assuming minimal system dependencies, the interpreter emphasizes high-level techniques to support efficient execution.

In particular, we introduce a biderectional layout for object instances that groups reference fields sequentially to allow efficient garbage collection. We also introduce a sparse interface virtual table layout that reduces the cost of interface method calls to that of normal virtual calls. Finally, we present a technique to improve thin locks[13] by eliminating busy-wait in presence of contention.




2001-02-27

This paper was originally published in the Proceedings of the Javatm Virtual Machine Research and Technology Symposium, April 23-24, 2001, Monterey, California, USA.
Last changed: 4 Jan. 2002 ml
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