Applying Distributed Shared Memory Techniques for Implementing Distributed Objects

In this paper we study how the potential advantages of distributed shared memory (DSM) techniques can be applied to concurrent object-oriented languages. We assume a DSM scheme based on an entry consistency memory model and propose an object model that can incorporate that DSM scheme. The object model is characterized by the requirement of explicitly enclosing object invocations between acquire and release operations, and the distinction between command and query operations. Details of a thread-based implementation are discussed, and results show that significant speed-ups can be obtained. We also conclude that using kernel-level threads can lead to better performance, and the overhead versus userlevel threads is negligible.