DMA Controller
Understanding Direct Memory Access
Introduction to DMA
• • DMA (Direct Memory Access) allows
peripherals to transfer data directly to
memory.
• • Reduces CPU involvement, improving system
efficiency.
• • Commonly used in hard drives, sound cards,
and network adapters.
Functions of a DMA Controller
• • Transfers data efficiently without CPU
intervention.
• • Frees up CPU resources for other tasks.
• • Handles bulk data transfers efficiently.
• • Supports multiple channels for simultaneous
transfers.
DMA Modes of Operation
• 1. Burst Mode: Full control of the bus until
transfer completes.
• 2. Cycle Stealing Mode: Transfers data one
byte/word at a time.
• 3. Transparent Mode: Transfers data only
when the CPU is idle.
How DMA Works
• 1. CPU programs the DMA controller with
source & destination addresses.
• 2. DMA controller takes control of the system
bus.
• 3. Data is transferred without CPU
intervention.
• 4. Once complete, DMA sends an interrupt to
the CPU.
Examples of DMA Controllers
• • Intel 8237: Classic DMA controller used in
older PC architectures.
• • Modern DMA Controllers: Integrated into
modern microcontrollers and processors.
Conclusion
• • DMA improves system performance by
reducing CPU workload.
• • Essential in modern computing for efficient
data transfers.
• • Widely used in embedded systems, storage
devices, and high-speed networking.