20.5. Micro-program Concept

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a micro-program?

   Hint

   Think of it as a set of instructions for controlling hardware.

2. 2.

   What is the purpose of a micro-program counter?

   Hint

   It's like a page number in a book that tells you where to read next.

3. 3.

   What is the key benefit of using micro-programming over hardwired control?

   • Faster execution
   • Flexibility in programming
   • Lower cost

   Hint

   Think about the ability to adapt to new requirements without physical changes.

4. 4.

   True or False: Hardwired control units can easily change their operations with new instructions.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember the definition of hardwired control.

5. 5.

   Design a mini micro-program that performs a subtraction operation between two registers. Describe the necessary micro instructions and control signals involved.

   Hint

   Consider the sequence of operations that must occur in a logical order for subtraction.

6. 6.

   Analyze a situation where a computer using a micro-programmed control unit faces a performance bottleneck while processing a large dataset. Propose a solution to mitigate this issue.

   Hint

   Think about situations where optimization can save time and enhance performance.