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Questions and Answers
What does ISA stand for?
What does ISA stand for?
Instruction Set Architecture
Which of the following is an example of an arithmetic instruction in an ISA?
Which of the following is an example of an arithmetic instruction in an ISA?
Completeness in an ISA means it should implement a limited number of programs.
Completeness in an ISA means it should implement a limited number of programs.
False
How many instructions does a typical ISA contain?
How many instructions does a typical ISA contain?
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Generic instructions in an ISA should be too specialized.
Generic instructions in an ISA should be too specialized.
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What does RISC stand for?
What does RISC stand for?
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Which of the following is a characteristic of CISC?
Which of the following is a characteristic of CISC?
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What is an example of a single instruction ISA?
What is an example of a single instruction ISA?
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Study Notes
Instruction Set Architecture (ISA)
- ISA functions as the abstract interface linking hardware and software, crucial for machine language programming.
- Types of instructions within an ISA include:
- Arithmetic: add, subtract, multiply, divide
- Logical: and, or, not
- Data transfer/movement instructions
Desirable Features of an ISA
- Completeness: Must support all user-written programs.
- Conciseness: Instruction set should have a limited size, generally between 32 to 1000 instructions.
- Generic Instructions: Avoid overly specialized instructions like "add14"; design should favor broader applicability.
- Simplicity: System should maintain uncomplicated instructions for ease of understanding.
ISA Paradigms
- Two main paradigms exist in ISA design:
-
RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer):
- Utilizes simpler, more regular instructions.
- Typically has a smaller set of instructions, exemplified by ARM architecture.
-
CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer):
- Features complex and irregular instructions that can handle multiple operands and intricate functionalities.
- Contains a larger set of instructions, notably found in Intel's x86 architecture.
-
RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer):
Examples of ISA
-
Single Instruction Example: The 'sbn' (subtract and branch if negative) instruction demonstrates a single operation.
- Sequence for adding two numbers (assumed temp initialized to 0):
- Step 1: sbn temp, b, 2
- Step 2: sbn a, temp, exit
- Sequence for adding two numbers (assumed temp initialized to 0):
Real-world ISA Application
- The MIPS instruction set will be used for practical learning about Assembly Language.
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Description
This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of Instruction Set Architecture (ISA), focusing on its functions, desirable features, and design paradigms such as RISC and CISC. Understand how ISA interfaces between hardware and software, and learn about different types of instructions. Perfect for students and professionals in computer science.
