Microprocessor and apparatus for performing fast pop operation from random access cache memory

A method for performing a fast pop operation from a random access cache memory, the method comprising:

• storing data of a push instruction into a row of the cache specified by a row value;
• pushing the row value onto a top entry of a LIFO memory in response to said storing;
• receiving a request to read the cache memory after said pushing, wherein the request specifies a request type;
• and
• reading the cache based on the row value stored in the top entry of the LIFO memory if the request type specifies a pop instruction type.

A computer data signal embodied in a transmission medium, comprising:

• computer-readable program code for providing an apparatus for performing a fast pop operation from a random access cache memory, said program code comprising:
• first program code for providing a last-in-first-out (LIFO) memory, for storing a plurality of row values, said LIFO having a top entry for storing a newest row value;
• and
• second program code for providing a multiplexer, comprising:
• a first data input, coupled to receive said newest row value from said top entry;
• a second data input, coupled to receive a row select portion of a memory address;
• a second data input, coupled to receive a row select portion of a memory address of an instruction accessing the cache memory;
• an output, for providing a value for selecting a row of the cache memory;
• and
• a selection input, for specifying a type of said instruction, wherein if said selection input specifies a pop instruction type, said multiplexer selects said first data input for provision on said output.