An approach for pointer optimization using SSA based intermediate representation

• Published in: 2011 International Conference on Recent Trends in Information Technology pp. 398 - 401
• Main Authors: Barhate, D., Sarje, A. K.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 01.06.2011
• Subjects: Algorithm design and analysis; alias classes; Compiler; Computer languages; Optimization; optimization algorithms; Optimizing compilers; Process control; static single assignment
• ISBN: 9781457705885; 1457705885
• DOI: 10.1109/ICRTIT.2011.5972428

In optimizing compilers, most of the optimizing algorithms are applied on intermediate representation. Optimizing algorithms such as constant propagation can be applied on intermediate code using data flow analysis which is expensive regarding compilation time. Also for pointer variables, these algorithms cannot be applied directly on pointers as pointers are difficult to analyse. In this paper, new approach for applying optimization algorithms such as constant propagation on pointer variables has been proposed. To avoid data flow analysis, static single assignment (SSA) form is used for intermediate representation and for pointers, alias classes are used. So using SSA and each alias class as a single variable, constant propagation algorithm can be applied on pointer variables very efficiently.