20.2. Unit Summary

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a microprogrammed control unit?

   Hint

   Think about how it differs from hardwired control.

2. 2.

   Define microinstruction.

   Hint

   Focus on what it 'instructs'.

3. 3.

   What does a microprogrammed control unit use to generate control signals?

   • Fixed circuitry
   • Memory-based instructions
   • Both

   Hint

   Recall the definition we discussed for microprogramming.

4. 4.

   True or False: Microprogrammed control units are inherently faster than hardwired control units.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Focus on speed vs. flexibility.

5. 5.

   Design a hypothetical microprogram for a task that involves adding two numbers, detailing the required microinstructions and expected control signals.

   Hint

   Think about the steps needed for performing addition and how each instruction leads to the next.

6. 6.

   Analyze the consequences of a jump instruction in a microprogram. What changes in control flow, and how do you handle it with a micro-program counter?

   Hint

   Consider how branching operates in programming languages and compare it to how flags control flow in microprogramming.