22.1.3. Micro-program Design

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a micro-program?

   Hint

   Think about how the CPU instructions are implemented.

2. 2.

   Name one function of the branch address field.

   Hint

   Consider where a program might need to go next.

3. 3.

   What does the branch address field do?

   • Stores data
   • Specifies an address to jump to
   • Controls display output

   Hint

   Think about where the program might need to go if a condition is true.

4. 4.

   True or False: Multiplexers are used to select an input signal based on multiple choices.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember their function in choosing which signal to pass through.

5. 5.

   Design a simple micro-program sequence that includes at least one branch instruction and describe how it controls the flow.

   Hint

   Think about common programming structures like if-else!

6. 6.

   Explain how using multiplexers can optimize micro-programmed control units compared to hardwired control designs.

   Hint

   Consider what makes multiplexers efficient.