Module 1 ppt4 Flashcards
What does CISC stand for?
Complex Instruction Set Computer
CISC is characterized by its ability to execute complex instructions directly on memory.
What is RISC?
Reduced Instruction Set Computer
RISC architecture simplifies the instruction set to improve execution speed.
What is a key characteristic of CISC architectures?
Directly use memory instead of a register file
CISC architectures can operate directly on memory locations.
List three examples of early RISC projects.
- IBM 801
- Stanford MIPS
- Berkeley RISC 1 and 2
These projects were developed in the late 70s and early 80s.
What is one advantage of RISC architecture?
Increased execution speed
RISC uses a smaller number of highly optimized instructions.
What technique does RISC use to improve instruction execution?
Pipelining
Pipelining allows for simultaneous execution of parts of instructions.
How does CISC reduce the burden on compiler development?
By allowing the processor to generate machine instructions
CISC processors have built-in capabilities to execute complex operations.
What is the typical CPI (clock per instruction) for RISC processors?
One cycle
This is due to the optimization of each instruction and pipelining.
Fill in the blank: CISC architectures use _______ memory for holding both data and instructions.
Cache
CISC shares the same path for instructions and data due to cache memory usage.
True or False: RISC architectures generally have a smaller number of registers.
False
RISC designs typically incorporate a larger number of registers.
What is a defining feature of CISC instructions?
Variable length format
This leads to variability in the number of clock cycles required for execution.
What is one example of a microprocessor that uses CISC architecture?
Intel 80x86
Other examples include the Motorola 68K series.
What does the RISC design philosophy aim to minimize?
Interactions with memory
This is achieved by incorporating a large number of registers.
