18.1.2. Unit Objectives

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define a control signal.

   Hint

   What role does it play in instruction execution?

2. 2.

   What is a microinstruction?

   Hint

   Consider the relationship between macro and micro instructions.

3. 3.

   What is a control signal?

   • A signal for data storage
   • A signal for directing CPU operations
   • A signal for user input

   Hint

   What role does it play during instruction execution?

4. 4.

   True or False: A hardwired control unit uses programmable logic.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   What is the core difference between hardwired and microprogrammed units?

5. 5.

   Develop a finite state machine that handles a 'STORE' operation, identifying the necessary control signals and states required.

   Hint

   Use what you learned about sequence and execution states.

6. 6.

   Compare the design of a hardwired control unit with a microprogrammed control unit, focusing on advantages and disadvantages.

   Hint

   Consider the role of instructions in each design.