Method and apparatus for performing generational garbage collection in a segmented heap

A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that when executed by a computer cause the computer to perform a method for performing generational garbage collection on a heap, the method comprising:

• dividing an old generation of the heap into segments;
• dividing each segment into a series of cards;
• and
• associating a card table with each segment, wherein the card table has an entry for each card in the series of cards.

An apparatus for performing generational garbage collection on a heap, comprising:

• a dividing mechanism that is configured to divide an old generation of the heap into segments;
• wherein the dividing mechanism is further configured to divide each segment into a series of cards;
• and
• an associating mechanism that is configured to associate a card table with each segment, wherein the card table has an entry for each card in the series of cards.