CAAL Special
CAAL Special
Q1.What is instruction.
Ans- In computer architecture, an instruction is a command given to a computer's CPU that specifies an
operation to perform on data. Instructions are fundamental building blocks of a program and define the tasks
a processor must execute. Each instruction typically includes:
1. Opcode (Operation Code): Specifies the operation, such as addition, subtraction, data transfer, or branching.
2. Operands: Provide the data or references (such as memory addresses or registers) that the instruction will
use to complete the operation.
The instruction set architecture (ISA) is a part of computer architecture that defines the set of instructions
that a CPU can execute. The ISA provides a blueprint for instructions, data types, registers, memory access,
and addressing modes.
Ans- The instruction cycle (or fetch-decode-execute cycle) is the process by which a CPU retrieves,
interprets, and executes each instruction in a program. This cycle is fundamental to a CPU’s operation and
enables the execution of instructions in sequence.
1. Fetch:
o The CPU retrieves the next instruction from memory. The
memory address of this instruction is held in the Program
Counter (PC).
o The instruction is then loaded into the Instruction Register
(IR).
o After fetching, the PC is incremented to point to the next
instruction in memory.
2. Decode:
o The CPU decodes the fetched instruction to determine what operation it
needs to perform.
o During decoding, the CPU interprets the opcode (operation code) and identifies the operands (data
or addresses) required.
o The CPU might also check which registers or memory locations it needs to access for the operation.
3. Memory Access (if needed):
o Some instructions, such as those that involve loading data from or storing data into memory, require
an additional memory access stage.
o The CPU might read data from or write data to memory based on the instruction’s needs.
4. Execute:
o The CPU performs the operation specified by the instruction.
o This could involve arithmetic operations, data transfer, logical operations, or control changes like
jumps.
o The exact actions depend on the type of instruction.
5. Write-back:
o The result of the operation is written back to a register or memory location.
o For example, if the instruction adds two numbers, the sum is stored back in the designated register.
6. Update Program Counter:
o Finally, the CPU prepares for the next instruction cycle by ensuring the PC points to the next
instruction in sequence, unless altered by control instructions (like jumps or branches).
To improve efficiency, modern CPUs often use pipelining, where multiple instructions are processed
simultaneously at different stages of the instruction cycle. For instance:
While one instruction is in the execute stage, the next can be in the decode stage, and another can be in the
fetch stage.
Ans- In computer architecture, a register is a small, fast storage location within the CPU that
temporarily holds data, instructions, or addresses. Registers are essential for executing instructions, as they
provide the CPU with rapid access to frequently used data, reducing the need to fetch it from slower
memory locations.
Uses of Registers
1. Data Storage: Temporarily store data that is actively used in calculations or operations.
2. Instruction Storage: Hold the current instruction being executed.
3. Address Storage: Store memory addresses that the CPU needs to access for reading or writing.
4. Intermediate Results: Temporarily hold intermediate results during complex calculations.
5. Control: Hold status flags and control information for managing program execution.
i. Index Register
ii. Memory Interfacing Memory
iii. Operation Code
iv. Instruction Set
An Index Register is a special-purpose register in the CPU used to hold a value (known as
the index or offset) that modifies the address of memory locations. This register is primarily
used in addressing modes to access data stored in arrays, tables, or sequential memory
locations.
Function: It helps in accessing elements of data structures like arrays or matrices where the same
operation needs to be performed on consecutive memory locations. By holding the offset value,
the index register adds or subtracts from a base address to point to a new memory location.
Example: If a program needs to loop through an array, the base address of the array is stored in a
general-purpose register, and the index register holds the index or offset value to access each
element.
Usage in Assembly: In assembly languages, an instruction might look like MOV AX, [BX + SI],
where BX holds the base address, and SI is the index register that holds the offset to access array
elements.
Benefit: This allows the CPU to efficiently access and manipulate arrays, improving performance in
loops and reducing the need for complex address calculations during program execution.
Memory Interfacing refers to the connection between the CPU and the system memory
(RAM), allowing data to be transferred between the two. It involves using a combination of
buses and control signals to ensure that the CPU can read from and write to memory
correctly and efficiently.
Function: The CPU communicates with memory through buses—address bus, data bus, and control
bus—to send addresses, data, and commands to memory. The address bus carries the memory
address where the data is stored or will be written. The data bus carries the actual data, while the
control bus manages read/write operations.
Process: When the CPU needs to fetch data, it sends the memory address over the address bus. The
memory then sends the requested data back to the CPU via the data bus. For writing data, the CPU
provides the data and memory address, and the control bus manages whether the operation is a
read or write.
Types of Memory: Common memory interfacing involves RAM (Random Access Memory) for data
storage and ROM (Read-Only Memory) for storing the firmware or BIOS.
Importance: Efficient memory interfacing ensures that the CPU can access data quickly, preventing
bottlenecks in data transfer that could slow down program execution. Faster memory interfacing
techniques, such as cache memory and Direct Memory Access (DMA), enhance performance by
reducing reliance on the CPU for data transfer.
Function: The opcode is the first part of a machine instruction and is decoded by the CPU to
determine what operation is required. The operands, which are usually registers or memory
addresses, specify the data the CPU will work on.
Types of Operations: Common opcodes include arithmetic operations (e.g., ADD, SUB), logical
operations (e.g., AND, OR), data movement operations (e.g., MOV, LOAD, STORE), and control flow
instructions (e.g., JUMP, CALL).
Example: In an assembly language instruction like ADD R1, R2, the ADD is the opcode, and R1 and
R2 are the operands. The CPU will add the values in registers R1 and R2 and store the result in R1.
Importance: The opcode is critical because it determines how the CPU interacts with the operands
and what result is produced. The opcode essentially defines the task the CPU is performing at any
given time.
An Instruction Set is the complete collection of all the instructions that a CPU can execute.
It defines the operations the CPU can perform, and these instructions are the foundation for
software execution on a processor.
Definition: General-purpose registers are flexible registers that can be used by the CPU to store
data, intermediate results, addresses, or other information during execution.
Function: These registers are used by the CPU to perform operations on data. For example, when
performing arithmetic calculations or moving data between locations, the general-purpose registers
temporarily hold operands and results.
Number: The number of general-purpose registers varies depending on the CPU architecture.
Typically, modern CPUs have between 8 and 32 general-purpose registers.
Examples: In the x86 architecture, registers like EAX, EBX, ECX, and EDX are general-purpose
registers. In ARM, registers R0 to R15 serve as general-purpose registers.
Usage: The programmer or the compiler has the freedom to use these registers for any purpose,
such as storing variables, temporary results, or addresses during program execution.
2. Special-Purpose Registers
Definition: Special-purpose registers are designed to perform specific control or monitoring tasks in
the CPU. They are used to store important information that controls the CPU’s operations, like the
status of the program or the location of instructions.
Function: These registers have specific, predefined roles. For example, some are used to store
memory addresses, control data flow, or hold the status flags that indicate the result of the last
operation (e.g., zero, carry, overflow).
Number: The number of special-purpose registers is typically fewer than general-purpose registers,
as they serve specialized functions.
Examples:
o Program Counter (PC): Holds the address of the next instruction to be executed.
o Stack Pointer (SP): Points to the top of the stack in memory.
o Instruction Register (IR): Holds the current instruction being executed.
o Status Register (Flags Register): Stores status flags, such as carry, zero, and overflow flags.
o Memory Address Register (MAR): Holds the address of data in memory that needs to be
read or written.
Usage: These registers are not typically used for storing general data or intermediate results.
Instead, they control the flow of instructions, store system status, or hold critical information for
the CPU's operations.
Key Differences
Feature General-Purpose Registers Special-Purpose Registers
Control Function No specific control function Responsible for controlling or monitoring CPU state
Number of
Varies, typically many (8-32) Typically fewer in number
Registers
Micro Programs
Definition: A micro program is a series or sequence of micro instructions that together define how to
execute a machine-level instruction. Micro programs are used in microprogrammed control units, where
each machine instruction is broken down into multiple micro instructions.
Function: The micro program specifies the steps (composed of micro instructions) needed to execute a
particular high-level machine instruction like ADD, SUB, or LOAD. Each step is controlled by a micro
instruction.
Example: A micro program to execute an ADD instruction might include fetching the operands, performing
the addition, and storing the result.
Execution: Micro programs are stored in the control memory and are fetched and executed in sequence to
carry out the machine-level instruction.
1. Speed: Registers are much faster than memory (RAM), as they are located within the CPU.
2. Size: Registers are typically very small in size, usually 32 or 64 bits, depending on the architecture of the CPU.
3. Purpose: Registers store intermediate data, instructions, and addresses during the execution of programs.
1. Overhead:
o Every interrupt requires the CPU to save its current state, execute the ISR, and restore its state. If
interrupts are frequent, this can create significant overhead.
2. Complexity:
o Managing interrupts can be complex, especially when dealing with multiple devices and prioritizing
interrupts. Systems need to have proper interrupt handling mechanisms, such as Interrupt Priority
and Interrupt Vector Tables.
3. Interrupt Latency:
o There might be a delay (latency) in handling the interrupt, especially if the CPU is already processing
another interrupt or if the interrupt handling mechanism is not optimized.
1. Keyboard Input: The CPU sends a request to the keyboard to detect a key press. While the CPU is
doing other tasks, the keyboard monitors the keys. When a key is pressed, the keyboard sends an
interrupt signal to the CPU. The CPU then stops its current tasks, executes the appropriate interrupt
service routine, and stores the keypress in memory.
2. Printer Output: Similarly, if the CPU wants to print something, it sends data to the printer and
signals that it's ready. The CPU can continue processing other tasks. When the printer finishes
printing, it sends an interrupt to notify the CPU that it is done, prompting the CPU to handle any
further printing tasks.
Interrupt Request (IRQ): A signal sent from an I/O device to the CPU indicating that it needs attention.
Interrupt Service Routine (ISR): A function or set of instructions that the CPU executes in response to an
interrupt.
Interrupt Vector Table (IVT): A table that stores the memory address of the ISRs for each interrupt type.
Interrupt Controller: A hardware component that manages interrupt requests and their priorities.
Ans- Interrupt
An interrupt is a mechanism that allows a CPU to temporarily halt its current execution and divert its
attention to a different task, usually in response to an external event or condition. When an interrupt occurs,
the CPU stops executing the current instructions, saves its state, and begins executing an Interrupt Service
Routine (ISR) to handle the interrupt. After the ISR finishes, the CPU resumes executing the program from
where it left off.
Interrupts are essential for efficient system operation because they allow the CPU to respond to events (like
input from a keyboard or arrival of data from a network) without constantly checking the status of devices (a
process known as polling).
1. Hardware Interrupts
Definition: Hardware interrupts are signals generated by external hardware devices or peripherals to get the
attention of the CPU. These interrupts are usually caused by external events, like user input or completion of
an I/O operation, and they help the CPU respond promptly to such events.
Origin: Generated by physical devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, or network cards.
Function: Hardware interrupts allow the CPU to temporarily stop executing its current task and give
attention to an external event (e.g., reading data from a keyboard or receiving data from a network).
Types:
o Maskable Interrupts (IRQ): Interrupts that can be delayed or ignored by the CPU if a higher-priority
task is being executed. These are used for non-critical events.
Example: A printer sending an interrupt to notify that it has finished printing.
o Non-Maskable Interrupts (NMI): Interrupts that cannot be ignored or delayed, as they signal critical
conditions requiring immediate attention, such as hardware failures.
Example: A memory failure or power loss triggering an NMI to alert the CPU to stop and take
necessary actions.
Process: When a hardware interrupt occurs, the CPU halts its current operation, saves its state, and
runs an Interrupt Service Routine (ISR) to process the interrupt. Afterward, it resumes its normal
operation.
2. Software Interrupts
Definition: Software interrupts are generated by programs or software applications running on the CPU.
These interrupts are usually used to request services from the operating system or to handle exceptional
conditions during program execution.
A register transfer involves copying or moving data between registers within the CPU or between the CPU
and memory. It is represented in the form of a register transfer operation, which is written as:
Copy code
R1 ← R2
In a more general form, a register transfer operation can involve several components, including:
1. Data Movement:
o The primary role of register transfer is to facilitate data movement between various parts of the
CPU. Registers are faster than memory, so transferring data between them allows for rapid
computation.
o For example, transferring data from one register to another can occur as part of the execution of an
arithmetic operation or data manipulation.
2. Execution of Instructions:
o Instructions in computer systems are executed through a series of register transfers. Each
instruction typically involves transferring data between the registers and memory, and between
registers and the ALU.
o For example, the instruction "ADD R1, R2, R3" (which adds the contents of R2 and R3 and stores the
result in R1) would involve the following register transfers:
1. Load data from R2 and R3.
2. Perform the addition in the ALU.
3. Store the result in R1.
3. Efficient Data Processing:
o Registers hold data that is immediately needed by the processor. By moving data between registers
quickly, the processor can perform complex operations faster.
o Register transfer minimizes the need for slower memory accesses, improving system performance.
4. Control of the Processor:
o The Control Unit (CU) generates the necessary control signals to direct register transfers. These
signals define which registers should be used for the operation, and whether data should be read
from or written to memory or an I/O device.
o For example, when executing a load or store instruction, the CU controls the transfer of data from
memory to a register, or from a register to memory.
5. Support for Arithmetic and Logic Operations:
o Arithmetic operations (like addition, subtraction) and logical operations (like AND, OR) are typically
performed by the ALU, but before these operations can happen, the operands are loaded into
registers.
o After the operation is completed, the result is transferred to a register, ready to be used for the next
operation or stored in memory.
6. Pipelining and Parallelism:
o Pipelining allows multiple instructions to be in different stages of execution simultaneously. Register
transfer plays a key role here, as the outputs of one stage (e.g., the result of an ALU operation) must
be transferred to the next stage in the pipeline.
o Parallel execution of tasks also relies on the efficient transfer of data between multiple registers and
functional units.
7. Address Calculation:
o For many instructions, such as load and store, an address must be computed, often using an index
register or a base register.
o The register transfer operations involved in address calculation typically use the contents of one or
more registers, perform arithmetic operations (like addition), and transfer the result to another
register.
When the cache is full, a replacement policy decides which data to replace to make room for new
data. Common replacement policies include:
o Least Recently Used (LRU): Replaces data that hasn’t been used for the longest time.
o First-In-First-Out (FIFO): Replaces data in the order it was added.
o Random Replacement: Randomly selects data to replace.
4. Write Policies
Determines how data written to the cache is synchronized with main memory:
o Write-Through: Data is written to both the cache and main memory simultaneously,
ensuring consistency.
o Write-Back: Data is written only to the cache initially, with changes written to main memory
later (e.g., when that cache line is replaced).
UNIT-2
Q1. Discuss the following in brief:
v. Vector Processing
Key Points:
General-Purpose Registers: These registers can hold data temporarily and are not restricted to specific
functions. Examples include registers like AX, BX, CX, and DX in x86 architecture.
Flexibility: Programs can use these registers for multiple purposes, allowing greater flexibility and efficiency
in data handling.
Direct Access: The CPU can access data in these registers much faster than accessing data from main
memory.
Register-to-Register Operations: Operations are performed directly between registers, improving processing
speed.
1. The control word determines which registers to use and what operation to perform.
2. SELA and SELB select the registers to be used as input to the ALU through the A and B buses.
3. The ALU performs the specified operation (based on the OPR signal) on the data from these selected
registers.
4. The result of the ALU operation is stored in the register specified by the SELD signal.
ii. Arithmetic Pipelining
Key Characteristics:
The pipeline stages might include tasks such as fetching operands, performing arithmetic operations, and
storing results.
Pipelining improves the efficiency of executing instructions that involve multiple arithmetic operations.
Each stage processes a different arithmetic operation simultaneously, improving the overall processing
speed.
1. Fetching operands.
2. Partial multiplication.
3. Final result computation and storing the result.
Advantages
The advantages of an array processor include the following.
Parallel Processing refers to the simultaneous execution of multiple processes or threads to perform
computations more efficiently. In parallel processing, tasks are divided into smaller sub-tasks that are
executed concurrently, either on multiple processors or cores, to achieve faster results.
Key Characteristics:
Tasks are broken down into smaller sub-tasks that can run concurrently.
Used in multi-core processors and distributed computing systems.
Increases the speed and efficiency of computation by utilizing multiple processing units.
Can be categorized into data parallelism (same operation on multiple data items) and task parallelism
(different operations on different tasks).
Example: In a multi-core CPU, different cores might execute different parts of a large program
simultaneously. In a distributed system, different computers might each handle a part of the computation.
v. Vector Processing
Vector Processing is a type of processing that allows the CPU to handle vectors (arrays of data) in a single
instruction, processing multiple data elements simultaneously. This is especially effective for tasks like
scientific calculations, signal processing, and machine learning, where operations on large data sets are
common.
Key Characteristics:
The CPU uses special vector registers that can hold multiple data elements (a vector) at once.
Operations like addition, multiplication, and other arithmetic functions can be performed on the entire
vector at once, speeding up processing.
Vector processing is often implemented in SIMD (Single Instruction, Multiple Data) architectures, where a
single instruction operates on multiple data elements in parallel.
Example: A vector processor can add two arrays of numbers, element by element, in a single instruction,
significantly speeding up tasks like matrix multiplication or filtering.
RISC: The RISC architecture uses a small, highly optimized instruction set. Each instruction is designed to
execute in a single clock cycle. It aims for simplicity, with instructions that perform very simple operations.
o Example: Load, store, add, and subtract are typical operations in RISC.
CISC: CISC processors, on the other hand, have a large and more complex instruction set. Each instruction
can perform multiple tasks, such as loading data from memory, performing an operation, and storing results,
all in one instruction.
o Example: The x86 architecture is a classic CISC example, where an instruction can load data and
perform an operation on it in one step.
2. Instruction Length
RISC: In RISC, instructions are typically of fixed length, making them easier to decode and execute.
This uniformity allows for faster execution and easier pipelining.
CISC: CISC instructions are variable in length, meaning some instructions can be quite long
(because they perform multiple operations in a single instruction). This can lead to more complex
decoding.
3. Execution Time
RISC: Each instruction in RISC is designed to complete in a single clock cycle, which makes the
execution time predictable and typically faster for simpler tasks. This allows for efficient pipelining
and parallel execution.
CISC: CISC instructions can take multiple clock cycles to execute because of their complexity and
the number of operations they perform in one instruction. However, CISC architectures can be more
efficient for tasks that require complex operations, as they reduce the number of instructions needed.
4. Use of Registers
RISC: RISC architectures emphasize the use of a large number of general-purpose registers. Most
operations in RISC involve manipulating data in these registers, reducing the need for frequent
memory access.
CISC: CISC architectures use fewer registers and often perform operations directly with memory.
This means that more memory accesses are required during execution, which can slow down
performance for certain tasks.
5. Code Density
RISC: RISC programs typically require more instructions to perform a task because each instruction
performs a simpler operation. This may result in larger code size.
CISC: CISC architectures generally have higher code density because each instruction can perform
multiple operations, so fewer instructions are needed. This can make CISC programs more compact.
6. Number of Instructions
RISC:
o RISC uses a smaller set of instructions. The idea is that fewer instructions, executed more efficiently,
can achieve the same results as more complex instructions.
o RISC processors tend to rely on software for complex tasks, using simpler instructions to implement
these operations.
CISC:
o CISC uses a large number of instructions, including complex ones that can perform multiple
operations in a single instruction.
o This reduces the need for multiple instructions to perform a task, which can reduce program size.
7. Compiler Design
RISC:
o Compilers for RISC architectures must work harder to optimize code because the processor uses
simpler instructions. The compiler will translate high-level operations into a sequence of simpler
instructions.
o As a result, RISC systems rely heavily on software optimization to maximize performance.
CISC:
o The compiler for CISC architectures has to handle a more complex set of instructions, as the
instructions themselves are capable of doing more work in one go.
o The complexity of the CISC instruction set can sometimes lead to more efficient code generation
from the compiler.
8. Power Consumption
RISC:
o RISC processors tend to consume less power because they perform simpler operations per cycle, and
the design allows for a more efficient pipeline.
o Fewer complex instructions mean less overall work and, typically, lower power consumption.
CISC:
o CISC processors tend to consume more power due to the complexity of their instruction set and the
need for more clock cycles to execute some instructions.
9. Hardware Complexity
RISC:
o RISC processors are generally simpler in terms of hardware design. Since instructions are simple and
uniform in length, the hardware doesn't need to be as complex.
o The simplicity of the RISC architecture allows for easier pipeline design and higher performance in
terms of speed.
CISC:
o CISC processors have more complex hardware because of the larger and more varied set of
instructions.
o The CPU needs more sophisticated hardware to decode and execute variable-length instructions,
leading to increased design complexity.
RISC: Some well-known RISC processors are the ARM, MIPS, and SPARC architectures.
CISC: The x86 architecture, used in most personal computers, is a prominent example of CISC.
Two's complement representation: It is the most common method for representing negative numbers in
binary.
Booth's algorithm uses the concept of bit-pair recoding to simplify multiplication.
The idea is to look at pairs of bits (the current bit and the previous bit) and decide what operation to
perform (adding, subtracting, or doing nothing).
1. Initialize:
o The two numbers to be multiplied are represented in
binary in two's complement form.
o Let M be the multiplicand (first
number) and Q be the multiplier (second
number).
o Initialize A (Accumulator) to 0 and
Q-1 (a "Q-minus-one" bit) to 0
(which is an extra bit for
examining bit pairs).
o The product will be stored in A and
Q together.
2. Booth's Recoding:
o Look at the pair of bits: the current
bit of Q and the previous bit (Q-1).
o Based on the pair, decide whether
to:
Add M (if Q and Q-1 are
01).
Subtract M (if Q and Q-1
are 10).
Do nothing (if Q and Q-1 are 00 or 11).
The result of the operation is added or subtracted from the accumulator A.
3. Shift:
o After each step, perform an arithmetic right shift on the combined A and Q registers.
o The number of shifts is equal to the number of bits in the multiplier (usually the same as the
multiplicand).
4. Repeat:
o Repeat the process for the number of bits in the multiplier.
In simpler terms, addressing modes tell the CPU how to find the data it needs to execute an instruction.
There are different types of addressing modes, each providing different ways to locate operands.
Definition: In this mode, the operand (the data to be used) is directly provided in the instruction itself. The
value is a constant, and the instruction does not reference any memory or register.
Example: MOV A, #5
o This instruction moves the immediate value 5 directly into register A.
o Here, #5 is the operand (the data), which is immediately available in the instruction. This mode does
not require memory access because the data is part of the instruction.
Use Case: Useful for operations that require constants like 5, 10, etc.
Definition: In register addressing mode, the operand is stored in a register. The instruction specifies the
register that holds the data to be used.
Example: MOV A, B
o This means "move the contents of register B into register A".
o Here, A and B are registers, and the operand is found in register B.
Use Case: Efficient for operations on data already loaded into registers.
Definition: The operand’s memory address is given explicitly in the instruction. The instruction specifies the
exact memory location where the data resides.
Example: MOV A, 1000H
o This means "move the contents from memory location 1000H into register A".
o 1000H is the direct memory address.
Use Case: Ideal when the operand is located in a specific memory location that is known in advance.
Definition: In indirect addressing mode, the instruction specifies a register or memory location that contains
the address of the operand. The operand is located at the address specified by the register or memory
location.
Example: MOV A, [BX]
o This means "move the contents from the memory location whose address is stored in register BX
into register A".
o The value in BX is treated as a pointer to the memory location that holds the actual data.
Use Case: Useful when the operand's address is not fixed and may change dynamically.
Definition: The address of the operand is calculated by adding a constant (index or offset) to a base address,
which is typically stored in a register. This mode is useful when working with arrays or tables.
Example: MOV A, [BX + 5]
o This means "move the contents from the memory location at address BX + 5 into register A".
o Here, BX is the base address stored in a register, and 5 is the offset added to the base to find the
actual operand.
Use Case: Commonly used when accessing elements of an array or data structure where the address of each
element is calculated by adding an offset.
Definition: The address of the operand is stored in a register, and the operand is located at the memory
address specified by the contents of the register. It’s similar to indirect addressing, but here, the address
pointer is a register.
Example: MOV A, [SP]
o This means "move the contents from the memory location whose address is in the stack pointer
register (SP) into register A".
o The operand is at the memory address pointed to by the SP register.
Use Case: Used for operations where a register points to a memory address, like when working with the
stack.
Definition: In this mode, the address of the operand is computed relative to the current position of the
program counter (PC). This is typically used in branch and jump instructions.
Example: JMP [PC + 5]
o This means "jump to the instruction located 5 bytes ahead of the current instruction".
o The operand's address is calculated by adding an offset (+5) to the current value of the program
counter (PC).
Use Case: Commonly used in conditional branches and loops, where the next instruction to execute depends
on the current program counter.
Definition: The address of the operand is calculated by adding a base register value (often used to reference
arrays or data structures) and an offset (immediate value or index). The base register typically holds a base
address, and the operand's address is calculated by adding an offset to this base address.
Example: MOV A, [BX + SI]
o This means "move the contents from the memory location at address BX + SI into register A".
o Here, BX is the base register, and SI is the index register used to calculate the operand's memory
address.
Use Case: Useful when accessing data structures like arrays, where the base register points to the beginning
of the data, and the index register provides the offset.
UNIT-3
Q1. Write short note on Floating point representation.
Floating point representation is a method of representing real numbers (including very large and very
small numbers) in a computer's memory. Unlike fixed-point representation, where the decimal point is fixed
in place, floating point allows the decimal point to "float," enabling the representation of a much wider range
of values.
Number=Sign×Mantissa×BaseExponent
Where:
1. Sign bit: Determines whether the number is positive (0) or negative (1).
2. Exponent: A binary number that represents the scale factor for the mantissa, typically with a bias to allow
both positive and negative exponents.
3. Mantissa (or Fraction): Represents the precision bits of the number, often normalized so that the leading
digit is assumed to be 1.
Standard Format:
Single Precision (32-bit): 1 bit for the sign, 8 bits for the exponent, and 23 bits for the mantissa.
Double Precision (64-bit): 1 bit for the sign, 11 bits for the exponent, and 52 bits for the mantissa.
Example:
The number −6.75-6.75−6.75 in binary floating point (using 32-bit representation) is stored as:
Advantages:
Wide Range: Can represent both very large and very small numbers (e.g., 10−30810^{-308}10−308 to
1030810^{308}10308).
Precision: Allows for high precision in calculations with real numbers.
Limitations:
Precision Loss: Floating point numbers have limited precision, which may lead to rounding errors.
Complexity: Floating point arithmetic is more computationally expensive than integer arithmetic.
Ans- Sure! Let's break down the differences between fixed point and floating point representation:
Fixed Point Representation:
1. Definition: Represents numbers with a fixed number of digits before and after the decimal point.
2. Precision: Limited precision, as the position of the decimal point is fixed.
3. Range: Limited range because it can only represent numbers within a specific interval.
4. Usage: Commonly used in applications where speed and simplicity are important, and the range of
values is known (e.g., embedded systems, financial calculations).
5. Arithmetic Operations: Faster and simpler since the position of the decimal point is fixed.
1. Definition: Represents numbers with a floating (variable) number of digits before and after the
decimal point using a format that includes a significand (or mantissa) and an exponent.
2. Precision: Higher precision, as it can represent a wider range of values with a varying number of
significant digits.
3. Range: Much larger range, capable of representing very small and very large numbers.
4. Usage: Used in scientific and engineering applications where a wide range of values and high
precision are required (e.g., simulations, graphics, computations).
5. Arithmetic Operations: More complex and slower due to the need for adjusting the exponent and
significand during calculations.
UNIT-4
Q1.Write short note on:-
Key Characteristics:
Example: In a synchronous serial communication (like I2C), the data and clock lines are used to transmit
information, and both the sender and receiver are synchronized to the clock signal.
Asynchronous Data Transfer is a type of data transmission where data is sent without a shared clock
signal between the sender and receiver. Instead, each byte of data is framed with start and stop bits to
indicate the beginning and end of the transmission. The sender and receiver operate independently, and
timing is determined by the start and stop bits.
4. Parity Bit (Optional): An optional parity bit may be included for error-checking purposes. This bit
can be set to make the number of 1s in the byte either even or odd.
5. Stop Bit: After the data bits (and optional parity bit), a stop bit is sent to indicate the end of the
transmission. The stop bit is usually a transition from a low voltage to a high voltage (1). There can
be one or more stop bits.
Pros:
o Flexibility: Devices do not need to share a clock, making asynchronous communication more flexible
and easier to implement in certain environments.
o Simple: Typically requires less complex hardware and can be used for communication over long
distances with minimal overhead.
o Efficient for low-speed communication: Ideal for low-to-moderate speed data transfers like
keyboard inputs, serial communication (e.g., RS-232), etc.
Cons:
o Lower Data Transfer Rate: Asynchronous communication tends to be slower than synchronous
communication due to the overhead of start and stop bits.
o Potential for Timing Errors: If the baud rate is not properly synchronized between sender and
receiver, timing mismatches may cause data corruption.
Example: An example of asynchronous communication is the RS-232 standard used in serial ports (like
those used in older computer systems) where the data is transmitted one byte at a time, with a start bit and a
stop bit.
Components
1. Sender/Transmitter: The device or
module responsible for sending the
data.
2. Receiver: The device or module
that receives and processes the data.
3. Communication Medium: The
physical or wireless medium through
which the data is transmitted, such as
cables, fiber optics, or radio waves.
Working of Half Duplex
The working of half duplex involves both side communication but not simultaneously. That means if
sender sends the message to receiver than after the the message is successfully transmitted only
the receiver can send the return message to sender. In the same way if receiver sends the message
to sender than after the the message is successfully transmitted only the sender can send the return
message to receiver.
3.Full Duplex
In this mode, data transmission and reception occur simultaneously on separate channels, allowing
continuous bidirectional communication. Lets see the diagram how Full Duplex works.
Components
1. Sender/Transmitter: The device
or module responsible for sending
the data.
2. Receiver: The device or module
that receives and processes the data.
3. Communication Medium: The
physical or wireless medium through
which the data is transmitted, such as
cables, fiber optics, or radio waves.
Working of Full Duplex
The working of full duplex involves both
side communication same as half duplex but here simultaneous communication is possible. That
means if sender sends the message to receiver at the same that is possible the receiver can also
send message to sender. In the same way if receiver sends the message to sender than at the same
that is possible the sender can also send message to receiver.
Q2. What is priority interrupt? Explain polling and chaining
priority.
Ans-Priority Interrupt
A priority interrupt is a type of interrupt where different interrupt requests (IRQs) are assigned a priority
level. When multiple devices request service at the same time, the system gives priority to the interrupt with
the highest priority. This ensures that critical or time-sensitive tasks are handled first, while less important
tasks wait their turn. The priority system helps in managing multiple interrupts without conflict and ensures
that important operations are not delayed.
Priority Levels: Devices or events requesting interrupts are assigned priority levels (often represented by
numbers or priority vectors). The interrupt with the highest priority is serviced first.
Interrupt Masking: Some systems allow interrupt masking, where lower-priority interrupts can be
temporarily disabled while higher-priority interrupts are being serviced.
Interrupt Handling: If multiple interrupts occur simultaneously, the interrupt controller selects the highest-
priority interrupt to handle first, based on pre-set priority levels.
Polling Priority
Polling is a technique where the CPU actively checks (or "polls") each device in a sequence to see if it needs
attention. In the context of priority interrupts, polling can be used to determine which interrupt should be
handled based on priority. Here, the CPU polls devices in a pre-defined order, and the first device that
requires service is processed. However, polling does not have automatic priority assignment like the priority
interrupt method does.
Example: If a system has 3 devices and the CPU polls in the order of device 1 → device 2 → device 3, the
CPU will check device 1 first, then device 2, and then device 3. If device 1 has an interrupt, it will be
serviced first. If it does not, the CPU will move on to device 2, and so on.
Chaining Priority
Chaining (also known as daisy-chaining) is a method used to handle priority interrupts in hardware. In
chaining, the devices are connected in series, and each device has a line connected to the next device,
allowing the interrupt requests to be passed along. The priority of the devices is determined by their physical
order in the chain. The device at the highest priority sends its interrupt request to the next device, and the
next device only sends its interrupt if it has a higher priority than the current device.
Example: In a chained priority system with three devices (device 1, device 2, and device 3), device 1 has the
highest priority, device 2 has medium priority, and device 3 has the lowest priority. When an interrupt is
triggered:
Device 1 (highest priority) raises an interrupt first, and the interrupt is passed to the CPU.
If device 1 does not raise an interrupt, the signal moves to device 2 (medium priority), and if necessary, to
device 3 (lowest priority).
The interrupt is serviced in the order of their priority.
Advantages of DMA:
Improved Performance: Offloads data transfer from the CPU, allowing it to focus on other tasks.
Reduced CPU Overhead: Minimizes CPU intervention in data transfer operations.
Efficient Data Transfer: Enables high-speed data transfer between I/O devices and memory.
Disadvantages of DMA:
RS-Register Select
DMA is essential for high-speed data transfers, as it bypasses the CPU to avoid bottlenecks and improve
overall system performance, especially in data-intensive tasks like streaming video or large file transfers.
DMA (Direct Memory Access) Transfer is a process in computer systems that allows certain hardware
subsystems to access the system memory independently of the central processing unit (CPU). DMA is
primarily used to speed up data transfers, especially between I/O devices (like disk drives, graphics cards,
network adapters, etc.) and system memory, without burdening the CPU with the entire data transfer
process.
Purpose of DMA:
The main purpose of DMA is to offload data transfer tasks from the CPU, allowing the CPU to
perform other processing tasks.
It increases data transfer efficiency, especially for high-speed devices, by allowing data transfer
directly between memory and peripherals.
Processor (CPU): Initiates the DMA transfer by setting up the DMA controller and granting it access to the
bus when a transfer request is made.
DMA Controller (DMAC): Manages the data transfer between the RAM and peripherals without involving
the CPU in every step.
RAM: The main memory where data is either read from or written to during the transfer.
Peripherals: External devices (such as hard drives, network cards, etc.) that require data transfer to or from
the memory.
Address Select: A unit responsible for selecting the appropriate address for data transfer in memory.
BR (Bus Request): The DMA controller sends a Bus Request signal to the CPU when it wants control of the
data bus to perform a data transfer.
BG (Bus Grant): In response to the Bus Request, the CPU sends a Bus Grant signal to the DMA controller,
allowing it temporary control of the system buses.
RD (Read) and WR (Write): Signals indicating whether data should be read from or written to the memory or
peripheral device.
Interrupt: After the DMA transfer is complete, an interrupt signal is sent to the CPU to notify it that the
transfer is finished.
DMA Request and DMA Acknowledge: The peripheral device sends a DMA Request signal to the DMA
controller when it needs data transfer, and the DMA controller responds with a DMA Acknowledge signal
once it is ready to handle the request.
1. DMA Request:
o The peripheral device needing data transfer sends a DMA Request signal to the DMA Controller
(DMAC).
2. Bus Request (BR):
o The DMA controller requests control of the system bus by sending a Bus Request (BR) signal to the
CPU.
3. Bus Grant (BG):
o The CPU, upon receiving the Bus Request, completes its current tasks, pauses its operations, and
sends a Bus Grant (BG) signal back to the DMA controller.
o This Bus Grant allows the DMA controller to take control of the system buses (address, data, and
control buses) for data transfer.
4. Data Transfer:
o Read/Write Control: Depending on the direction of the data transfer, the DMA controller sets the
Read (RD) or Write (WR) signal.
o Address Bus and Data Bus: The DMA controller manages the Address Bus to specify memory
locations in RAM and uses the Data Bus to transfer data between RAM and the peripheral device.
o The Address Select component ensures that the correct memory address is selected for the data
transfer.
5. Completion and Interrupt:
o Once the data transfer is complete, the DMA controller releases the bus back to the CPU.
o The DMA controller sends an Interrupt signal to the CPU to indicate that the data transfer is finished
and that the CPU can resume its operations.
Q5. What do you mean by Input-Output Processor (IOP).
Explain with the help of block diagram.
2. Memory Bus: This bus connects the memory unit to both the CPU and the IOP. It allows for data transfer
between these components.
3. CPU: The central processing unit handles the primary processing tasks. It can also initiate I/O operations
by sending commands to the IOP.
4. IOP: The Input-Output Processor is dedicated to handling I/O operations. It can directly access the
memory bus to transfer data between I/O devices and memory, freeing up the CPU for other tasks.
5. Peripheral Devices (PD1, PD2, PD3): These are various I/O devices like disk drives, printers,
keyboards, etc., connected to the system. They communicate with the IOP for data transfer.
IOPs serve as intermediaries between the CPU and various peripheral devices such as
keyboards, mice, printers, storage devices, network interfaces, etc. They provide a
standardized interface for communication between these devices and the CPU.
‣ Data Transfer:
IOPs facilitate the transfer of data between the CPU and peripherals. They manage data
transfers efficiently, handling tasks like data buffering, error detection, and error
correction to ensure reliable communication.
‣ Interrupt Handling:
IOPs handle interrupts generated by peripheral devices to signal events such as data
arrival, completion of data transfer, or error conditions. Upon receiving an interrupt,
the IOP suspends the CPU’s current task, processes the interrupt, and performs the
necessary actions to handle the event.
‣ Device Control:
IOPs control the operation of peripheral devices by sending commands and receiving
status information. They manage device initialization, configuration, and operation
according to the requirements of the CPU and the applications running on it.
‣ I/O Addressing:
IOPs utilize I/O addressing mechanisms to access peripheral devices. They interpret
I/O instructions issued by the CPU, translate them into appropriate signals or
commands for the peripherals, and handle the data transfer between memory and
devices.
Many modern IOPs support DMA, a feature that enables data transfer between memory
and peripherals without CPU intervention. DMA allows for faster data transfer rates
and relieves the CPU from the burden of managing data transfers, improving overall
system performance.
‣ Bus Interface:
IOPs connect to the system bus to communicate with the CPU and memory. They adhere
to bus protocols and standards to ensure compatibility with the CPU and other system
components.
‣ Parallelism and Pipelining:
Advanced IOPs may employ parallel processing and pipelining techniques to improve
throughput and efficiency. Parallelism allows simultaneous processing of multiple I/O
operations, while pipelining enables overlapping of different stages of I/O operations to
reduce latency.
CPU-IOP Communication
There is a communication channel between IOP and CPU to perform task which
come under computer architecture. This channel explains the commands executed by IOP
and CPU while performing some programs. The CPU do not executes the instructions but
it assigns the task of initiating operations, the instructions are executed by IOP. I/O
transfer is instructed by CPU. The IOP asks for CPU through interrupt.
Explanation:
• Communication channel between IOP and CPU Whenever CPU gets interrupt from IOP to
access memory, it sends test path instruction to IOP. IOP executes and check for status, if the
status given to CPU is OK, then CPU gives start instruction to IOP and gives it some control
and get back to some another (or same) program, after that IOP is able to access memory for
its program. Now IOP start controlling I/O transfer using DMA and create another status
report as well. AS soon as this I/O transfer completes IOP once again send interrupt to CPU,
CPU again request for status of IOP, IOP check status word from memory location and gives
it to CPU. Now CPU check the correctness of status and continues with the same process.
Ans- Difference Between Hardwired Control Unit and Microprogrammed Control Unit
The Control Unit (CU) in a computer system is responsible for directing the operation of the processor by
sending control signals to other parts of the computer, such as the ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit), registers,
and memory. The CU interprets instructions from memory and ensures the correct sequence of operations.
There are two main types of control units used in a CPU: Hardwired Control Unit (HWCU) and
Microprogrammed Control Unit (MCU).
The Hardwired Control Unit is designed using fixed logic circuits (such as gates, flip-flops, and
combinational logic circuits) that are hardwired to generate control signals based on the inputs received. It is
the traditional approach to designing control units.
Design: The Hardwired Control Unit is implemented using fixed logic circuits (combinational logic) to
directly produce control signals for the CPU. This involves using hardware components such as gates, flip-
flops, decoders, and other circuits.
A micro-programmed control unit can be described as a simple logic circuit. We can use it in two ways, i.e.,
it is able to execute each instruction with the help of generating control signals, and it is also able to do
sequencing through microinstructions. It will generate the control signals with the help of programs. At the
time of evolution of CISC
architecture in the past, this
approach was very famous. The
program which is used to create the
control signals is known as the
"Micro-program". The micro-
program is placed on the processor
chip, which is a type of fast
memory. This memory is also
known as the control store or control
memory.
Speed: Microprogrammed control units are generally slower because fetching microinstructions from
control memory adds an extra step. However, this extra step is a trade-off for flexibility.
Flexibility: They are more flexible because changes and additions to the instruction set can be made by
updating the microprogram in the control memory, without changing the hardware.
Complexity: Easier to design and modify, even for complex instruction sets, because changes are made in
the microprogram, not in the hardware. This reduces the risk of errors in the logic design.
Cost: Generally less costly in terms of design and manufacturing as it uses standard memory components
instead of custom hardware.
Ans-
UNIT-5
Q1. Draw and explain the architecture of 8085
microprocessor along with all its registers and instruction
set.
The central red bus shown in the diagram is the 8-bit internal data bus, which allows data transfer between
different components of the microprocessor.
It connects components like the accumulator, ALU, general-purpose registers, and memory buffers, enabling
data to be exchanged within the CPU.
2. Accumulator (A)
3. Temporary Register
4. Flag Register
The flag register holds five condition flags (sign, zero, auxiliary carry, parity, and carry), which indicate the
outcome of an operation (e.g., if the result is zero, if there is a carry, etc.).
These flags are used by conditional branch instructions to decide the next course of action in a program.
The ALU performs arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction) and logic operations (AND, OR, NOT, etc.).
It receives input from the accumulator and other registers and sends the result back to the accumulator or
other storage locations.
This unit synchronizes all operations, generating timing signals and control signals.
It coordinates data transfer, manages communication between the CPU and other parts of the system, and
handles execution of instructions.
Control signals go to various components like the ALU, registers, and buses to manage data flow.
8. Interrupt Control
Interrupt control allows external devices to interrupt the CPU, temporarily halting its current operations.
When an interrupt is triggered, the CPU handles higher-priority tasks (e.g., I/O tasks) before returning to its
previous operation.
This mechanism is useful for real-time processing, such as handling I/O devices.
9. Serial I/O Control
The Serial I/O Control manages serial communication, allowing data to be transmitted or received serially
(one bit at a time).
This feature is used for serial devices like keyboards or modems, facilitating communication with peripherals.
These 8-bit registers can store data temporarily during program execution.
The registers can be used individually or as register pairs (BC, DE, HL) to store 16-bit data.
The HL pair is often used to hold a memory address (memory pointer).
Stack Pointer (SP): A 16-bit register that holds the address of the top of the stack in memory. The stack is
used for temporary storage, particularly during subroutine calls and interrupts.
Program Counter (PC): A 16-bit register that holds the address of the next instruction to be executed. It
automatically increments after each instruction, ensuring sequential execution.
12. Multiplexer
Address Buffer (A<sub>8</sub> – A<sub>15</sub>): This 8-bit buffer holds the higher byte of the memory
address during memory access.
Data Address Buffer (AD<sub>7</sub> – AD<sub>0</sub>): This 8-bit buffer serves a dual purpose. It
carries both the lower byte of the address and data, based on the timing signals.
The 8085 instruction set is divided into several categories based on the types of operations they perform:
Bit Position: 7
Description: This flag is set to 1 if the result of an operation is negative (when the most significant
bit (MSB) of the result is 1). It is cleared to 0 if the result is positive.
Bit Position: 6
Description: This flag is set to 1 if the result of an operation is zero. It is cleared to 0 if the result is
non-zero.
Bit Position: 4
Description: This flag is set to 1 if there is a carry-out from the lower nibble (the lower 4 bits) in a
binary addition. It is mainly used for Binary-Coded Decimal (BCD) arithmetic.
Bit Position: 2
Description: This flag is set to 1 if the number of 1s in the result is even (even parity). It is cleared to
0 if the number of 1s is odd (odd parity).
Bit Position: 0
Description: This flag is set to 1 if there is a carry-out from the most significant bit (MSB) during an
addition, or if there is a borrow during a subtraction. It indicates an overflow in unsigned arithmetic
operations.
UNIT-6
Q1. Write a program to add or subtract two number in
assembly language.
Ans- section .data
result db 0
result_str db "Result: ",0
section .bss
output resb 1 ; To store ASCII representation of result
section .text
global _start
_start:
mov cl,1
mov bl,1
add cl,bl ;for subtraction write sub at the place of add
; Store result
mov [result], cl
; Exit program
mov rax, 60 ; Syscall: exit
xor rdi, rdi ; Status code 0
syscall
The subroutine linkage method is a way in which computers call and return the Subroutine. The simplest way of
Subroutine linkage is saving the return address in a specific location, such as a register which can be called a link
register called Subroutine.
Advantages of Subroutines
Code reuse: Subroutines can be reused in multiple parts of a program, which can save time and reduce the
amount of code that needs to be written.
Modularity: Subroutines help to break complex programs into smaller, more manageable parts, making them
easier to understand, maintain, and modify.
Encapsulation: Subroutines provide a way to encapsulate functionality, hiding the implementation details from
other parts of the program.
Disadvantages of Subroutines
Overhead: Calling a subroutine can incur some overhead, such as the time and memory required to push and
pop data on the stack.
Complexity: Subroutine nesting can make programs more complex and difficult to understand, particularly if
the nesting is deep or the control flow is complicated.
Side Effects: Subroutines can have unintended side effects,
such as modifying global variables or changing the state of the
program, which can make debugging and testing more difficult.
From the above figure, assume that when Subroutine 1 calls Subroutine
2 the return address of Subroutine 2 should be saved somewhere. So if
the link register stores the return address of Subroutine 1 this will be
(destroyed/overwritten) by the return address of Subroutine 2. As the
last Subroutine called is the first one to be returned ( Last in first out
format). So stack data structure is the most efficient way to store the
return addresses of the Subroutines.
Q3. Discuss various logical instruction, machine control
instruction, and program control instruction in the
assembly language.
1. Logical Instructions:
Logical instructions perform bitwise operations on data, such as AND, OR, XOR, and NOT. These operations
are fundamental to many programming tasks, including bit manipulation, flag setting, and data masking.
AND: Performs a bitwise AND operation on two operands, setting each bit of the result to 1 only if
both corresponding bits of the operands are 1.
OR: Performs a bitwise OR operation on two operands, setting each bit of the result to 1 if at least
one of the corresponding bits of the operands is 1.
XOR: Performs a bitwise XOR operation on two operands, setting each bit of the result to 1 only if
the corresponding bits of the operands are different.
NOT: Performs a bitwise NOT operation on a single operand, inverting each bit of the operand.
Machine control instructions control the operation of the CPU itself, such as halting the processor, setting
interrupt flags, and manipulating the program counter. These instructions are essential for managing the
flow of execution and interacting with the hardware.
Program control instructions alter the normal flow of execution, such as branching, looping, and calling
procedures. These instructions are crucial for implementing complex algorithms and decision-making
processes.
; Unconditional jump
jmp label1 ; Jump to label1