We propose a novel, operational framework to formally describe the semantics
of concurrent programs running within the context of a relaxed memory model.
Our framework features a "temporary store" where the memory operations issued
by the threads are recorded, in program order. A memory model then specifies
the conditions under which a pending operation from this sequence is allowed to
be globally performed, possibly out of order. The memory model also involves a
"write grain," accounting for architectures where a thread may read a write
that is not yet globally visible. Our formal model is supported by a software
simulator, allowing us to run litmus tests in our semantics.Comment: In Proceedings EXPRESS/SOS 2012, arXiv:1208.244
