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VM Protected Mode

The document explains the flags of the 80386 processor, including VM, RF, IOPL, NT, and TF, detailing their functions in protected mode. It also describes the operation of protected mode, highlighting features such as address translation, segmentation, paging, and protection mechanisms. Overall, protected mode enhances memory management and multitasking capabilities, making it suitable for modern operating systems.

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5 views4 pages

VM Protected Mode

The document explains the flags of the 80386 processor, including VM, RF, IOPL, NT, and TF, detailing their functions in protected mode. It also describes the operation of protected mode, highlighting features such as address translation, segmentation, paging, and protection mechanisms. Overall, protected mode enhances memory management and multitasking capabilities, making it suitable for modern operating systems.

Uploaded by

Raj yadav
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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80386 Flags and Protected Mode

80386 Flags and Protected Mode

Q3) Explanation of VM, RF, IOPL, NT, TF Flags of 80386

1. VM (Virtual Mode):

- This flag is set to enable the Virtual 8086 Mode.

- In this mode, the processor runs in protected mode but emulates real mode, allowing execution of

real-mode applications.

- Useful in multitasking environments (e.g., running DOS apps under Windows).

- Linear addresses are translated by paging to a 32-bit physical address.

2. RF (Resume Flag):

- Used with the debug register breakpoints.

- Checked at the start of every instruction cycle.

- If set, debug faults are ignored for the current instruction cycle.

- Automatically cleared after instruction execution, except for IRET and POPF.

3. IOPL (I/O Privilege Level) [Bits 12-13]:

- Determines the privilege level required for I/O instructions.

- If the CPL (Current Privilege Level) is numerically higher (less privileged) than IOPL, executing I/O

instructions will raise a General Protection Fault (Exception 13).

- Applies only in Protected Mode.

4. NT (Nested Task) [Bit 14]:

- Indicates that the current task is nested within another.


80386 Flags and Protected Mode

- Set during a task switch when the current Task State Segment (TSS) has a valid backlink to a previous

task.

- Relevant in multitasking under Protected Mode.

5. TF (Trap Flag):

- Enables single-step debugging.

- If set, the processor generates a debug exception after every instruction, allowing step-by-step execution.

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Q4) Explanation of Protected Mode Operation in 80386

Protected Mode enables advanced memory management and multitasking features in the 80386. The key

characteristics include:

Key Features:

- Address Translation: Logical addresses are converted to linear addresses using segmentation and then to

physical addresses using paging.

- Segmentation:

- Logical address = Segment Selector + Offset.

- Segment Selector selects a descriptor from the descriptor tables (GDT/LDT).

- Descriptor contains base, limit, and access rights.

Diagram: Segment Translation

Logical Address --> Segment Selector --> Descriptor --> Base + Offset --> Linear Address
80386 Flags and Protected Mode

- Paging:

- Enabled by setting the PG bit in CR0.

- Linear address is divided into Page Directory, Page Table, and Offset.

Diagram: Paging Translation

Linear Address (32-bit): [Dir (10 bits)] [Table (10 bits)] [Offset (12 bits)]

Directory --> Page Table --> Physical Address

- Protection:

- Uses descriptor privilege levels (DPL), IOPL, and CPL.

- Prevents unauthorized access to code/data.

- Segmentation provides 4-level protection.

Address Spaces:

1. Logical Address - used by programs.

2. Linear Address - after segmentation.

3. Physical Address - after paging.

Descriptor Tables:

- GDT (Global Descriptor Table): System-wide.

- LDT (Local Descriptor Table): Per task.

- IDT (Interrupt Descriptor Table): For interrupts.

Control Registers:

- CR0: Enables Protected Mode (PE bit).

- CR2: Holds faulting address (for page faults).


80386 Flags and Protected Mode

- CR3: Holds base address of Page Directory.

Virtual Mode (VM flag):

- Runs 8086 programs in a controlled environment.

- Useful in systems like Windows that run DOS applications.

Conclusion:

Protected mode provides powerful memory management through segmentation and paging, robust protection

features, multitasking, and virtual memory capabilities, making it ideal for modern operating systems.

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Diagrams included are textual representations; real diagrams can be inserted during document formatting.

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