7.2.2. Complexity of Instructions

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a macro instruction?

   Hint

   Think about complex commands the CPU has to perform.

2. 2.

   How many phases are there in an instruction cycle?

   Hint

   List each phase that the CPU must undergo.

3. 3.

   What is the primary role of micro instructions in a CPU?

   • To simplify macro instructions
   • To execute high-level commands
   • To manage memory access

   Hint

   Think about how CPUs handle complex tasks.

4. 4.

   True or False: All macro instructions can be executed in a single clock cycle.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the definition of macro instructions.

5. 5.

   Design a complete instruction cycle for a complex macro instruction, detailing the micro instructions involved at each phase.

   Hint

   Consider how each phase interrelates and the micro tasks involved.

6. 6.

   Evaluate how using clock grouping can enhance instruction processing in a multi-core CPU.

   Hint

   Think of scenarios where multiple cores can work on non-dependent tasks simultaneously.