19.2.3. Conditional Jump Implementation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the purpose of control signals in CPU functionality?

   Hint

   Think about how commands are sent to different parts of the CPU.

2. 2.

   Define what a finite state machine (FSM) is.

   Hint

   Consider how instructions change states in a program.

3. 3.

   What does the MFC signal indicate?

   • The memory operation is complete
   • The CPU is idle
   • The instruction is being executed

   Hint

   Think of MFC as a 'green light' for memory operations.

4. 4.

   True or False: Conditional jumps occur regardless of flag status.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall how flags can enable or disable certain operations.

5. 5.

   Devise a set of control signals needed for a CPU to execute both an ADD and a conditional jump operation together, detailing how you would ensure synchronization.

   Hint

   Consider how flags play into this and whether checks are required.

6. 6.

   Explore the implications of having a faulty signal in an FSM controlling conditional jumps. What might happen if the flag indicating a ‘zero’ condition fails to register?

   Hint

   Reflect on how critical flags are for determining control flows.