Digital Electronics - Vol 2 | 13. Microprocessors - Part A by Abraham | Learn Smarter
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13. Microprocessors - Part A

Microprocessors are essential components of microcomputers, functioning as the central processing unit by executing binary instructions from memory. The chapter explores fundamental concepts of microprocessors, including their architecture, evolution, and various types and applications. Key topics include the components of a microprocessor, the types of instructions, addressing modes, and criteria for selecting microprocessors for different applications.

Sections

  • 13

    Microprocessors

    This section provides an overview of microprocessors, explaining their function as the central processing unit of microcomputers and detailing key aspects such as architecture, instruction sets, and various applications.

  • 13.1

    Introduction To Microprocessors

    This section introduces microprocessors as programmable devices that manage data and instructions within a computer system, highlighting their integral role and structure.

  • 13.2

    Evolution Of Microprocessors

    This section outlines the evolution of microprocessors from their inception to modern designs, following Moore's law.

  • 13.3

    Inside A Microprocessor

    This section discusses the internal structure of a microprocessor, focusing on its key functional components: the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), the Register File, and the Control Unit.

  • 13.3.1

    Arithmetic Logic Unit (Alu)

    The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is a core component of microprocessors responsible for performing arithmetic operations and logical operations on binary data.

  • 13.3.2

    Register File

    The register file comprises various registers that store data, addresses, and status information during program execution.

  • 13.3.2.1

    Program Counter

    The program counter is a critical register in microprocessors that tracks the address of the next instruction to execute, influencing the flow of program execution.

  • 13.3.2.2

    Instruction Register

    The instruction register stores the current instruction being executed by the microprocessor, aiding in the control of operations.

  • 13.3.2.3

    Buffer Register

    The buffer register interfaces the microprocessor with memory, primarily through the memory address register (MAR) and memory buffer register (MBR).

  • 13.3.2.4

    Status Register

    The status register stores output conditions of an operation and informs the microprocessor about various conditions during ALU operations.

  • 13.3.2.5

    Stack Pointer

    The stack pointer is a register in a microprocessor that holds the address of the most recent entry in the stack, facilitating temporary data storage.

  • 13.3.2.6

    General-Purpose Registers

    This section discusses general-purpose registers in microprocessors, their functions, and how they enhance data processing speed.

  • 13.3.2.7

    Temporary Registers

    Temporary registers are utilized in microprocessors to store data momentarily during instruction execution, remaining hidden from the user.

  • 13.3.3

    Control Unit

    The Control Unit coordinates the activities of the microprocessor and manages instruction execution.

  • 13.4

    Basic Microprocessor Instructions

    This section covers the fundamental instructions executed by microprocessors, including data transfer, arithmetic, logic, control transfer, and machine control instructions.

  • 13.4.1

    Data Transfer Instructions

    Data transfer instructions facilitate the movement of data between various locations in a microprocessor system.

  • 13.4.2

    Arithmetic Instructions

    This section details the arithmetic instructions executed by microprocessors, including operations like addition, subtraction, and increment.

  • 13.4.3

    Logic Instructions

    Logic instructions enable microprocessors to perform fundamental logical operations such as AND, OR, NOT, and EXCLUSIVE-OR.

  • 13.4.4

    Control Transfer Or Branch Or Program Control Instructions

    This section covers control transfer instructions in microprocessors, which alter the sequence of program execution through jumps, calls, returns, and interrupts.

  • 13.4.5

    Machine Control Instructions

    This section outlines the machine control instructions utilized by microprocessors, specifically focusing on HALT and NOP instructions.

  • 13.5

    Addressing Modes

    Addressing modes define how data operands are specified within microprocessor instructions.

  • 13.5.1

    Absolute Or Memory Direct Addressing Mode

    This section explains the Absolute Addressing Mode, detailing how data is accessed directly via specified memory locations.

  • 13.5.2

    Immediate Addressing Mode

    Immediate addressing mode provides direct access to operand values, stored within the instruction itself, enabling faster execution.

  • 13.5.3

    Register Direct Addressing Mode

    Register Direct Addressing Mode allows a microprocessor to access data stored directly in registers, enabling faster operations.

  • 13.5.4

    Register Indirect Addressing Mode

    Register indirect addressing mode uses a register to hold the address of the data, allowing for dynamic memory access during execution.

  • 13.5.5

    Indexed Addressing Mode

    The indexed addressing mode in microprocessors allows data access by adding a constant to a register's contents, facilitating dynamic data handling.

  • 13.5.6

    Implicit Addressing Mode And Relative Addressing Mode

    This section discusses implicit and relative addressing modes in microprocessors, highlighting their functionalities and applications in instruction execution.

  • 13.6

    Microprocessor Selection

    This section discusses the key criteria for selecting the appropriate microprocessor for a specific application, emphasizing factors such as speed, power consumption, and performance.

  • 13.6.1

    Selection Criteria

    This section outlines essential criteria for selecting the appropriate microprocessor for various applications, addressing factors like price, performance, power consumption, and software support.

  • 13.6.1.1

    Price

    Price is a crucial factor in microprocessor selection, especially for embedded systems facing budget constraints.

  • 13.6.1.2

    Power Consumption

    Power consumption in microprocessors is critical, especially in battery-operated devices, affecting overall design and efficiency.

  • 13.6.1.3

    Performance

    Performance in microprocessors involves evaluating speed, efficiency, and suitability for specific applications.

  • 13.6.1.4

    Availability

    The 'Availability' section discusses essential factors for selecting a microprocessor, focusing on ensuring that the processor is readily accessible for the application at hand.

  • 13.6.1.5

    Software Support

    This section highlights the importance of associated software in microprocessor selection, particularly emphasizing debuggers, compilers, and operating systems.

  • 13.6.1.6

    Code Density

    Code density refers to the ratio between the size of the source code and the size of the object code, indicating how efficiently a processor uses memory.

  • 13.6.2

    Microprocessor Selection Table For Common Applications

    This section outlines how to select microprocessors for various applications and presents a selection table detailing suitable types for specific application classes.

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • Microprocessors form the co...
  • Different types of micropro...
  • Microprocessors execute a v...

Final Test

Revision Tests