Imp
Imp
● Timing Variations. All stages cannot take same amount of time. ...
● Data Hazards. When several instructions are in partial execution, and if they
reference same data then the problem arises. ...
● Branching. ...
● Interrupts. ...
● Data Dependency.
Similarly
Virtual Memory:
Paging:
Page replacement:
Cache memory
Cache memory, also simply called cache, is a special type of high-speed memory located
close to the central processing unit (CPU) in a computer system. It acts as a buffer or
temporary storage area that holds frequently used data and instructions, allowing the CPU to
access them much faster than if it had to retrieve them from the main memory (RAM) every
time.
Fetch Cycle:
The fetch cycle, also known as the instruction fetch cycle, is a fundamental operation
in the computer architecture and organization (CAO) domain. It's the first stage of the
instruction cycle, which is the complete process by which the CPU retrieves,
decodes, and executes instructions.
Steps:
Address Sequencing:
Components:
1. Control Unit: This unit within the CPU is responsible for fetching and
decoding instructions. It also manages the address sequencing process.
2. Program Counter (PC): This register holds the memory address of the next
instruction to be fetched. Address sequencing involves updating the PC based
on the current instruction and program flow.
3. Control Memory (Optional): In some architectures, a dedicated control
memory might store microinstructions that define the sequencing logic for
fetching a sequence of instructions related to a specific operation.
Techniques:
● Ensures the CPU fetches instructions in the correct order for proper program
execution.
● Enables conditional execution and control flow within programs through
branching.
● Allows for subroutine calls and returns, facilitating modular programming.
● Supports looping constructs for iterative tasks.
Implementation:
The specific implementation of address sequencing can vary depending on the CPU
architecture. Some common mechanisms include:
● Hardwired Logic: The control unit might have dedicated logic circuits to
handle various sequencing scenarios like branching based on condition
codes.
● Microprogrammed Control: A control memory might store microinstructions
that define the sequencing logic for different instruction types and control flow
situations.
Impact on Performance:
Efficient address sequencing is crucial for optimal CPU performance. Techniques like
branch prediction can help the CPU anticipate branching behaviour and pre-fetch
instructions from the likely target address, minimising delays.