18.1.1. Unit Summary

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a hardwired control unit?

   Hint

   Think about the difference between hardware and software.

2. 2.

   Define what a finite state machine is.

   Hint

   Recall that it has finite states.

3. 3.

   What does a hardwired control unit primarily use to generate control signals?

   • Software algorithms
   • Fixed circuitry
   • Microcontrollers

   Hint

   Think about what 'hardwired' means in terms of flexibility.

4. 4.

   True or False? Hardwired control units are flexible and easily reprogrammable.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the nature of hardware compared to software.

5. 5.

   Design a finite state machine suitable for executing a series of arithmetic operations (e.g., ADD, SUBTRACT). Outline the key states and transitions.

   Hint

   Think about what each arithmetic operation entails.

6. 6.

   Review the advantages of a hardwired control unit. Given a specific computational need, argue whether a hardwired or microprogrammed unit would be more effective.

   Hint

   Evaluate the context clearly.