Advanced Microprocessor Architectures
This module delves into advanced microprocessor architectures, highlighting the evolution from simple systems to complex designs that incorporate techniques like virtual memory, caching, and parallel processing. Key advancements in Intel processors, such as the transition from CISC to RISC principles and innovations in memory management, set the foundation for modern computing and high performance. The discussion encompasses concepts like segmentation, paging, and cache coherence, alongside explorations of architectural advancements in the Intel x86 series, notably the 286, 386, and 486 families.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- Virtual memory provides an application with an illusion of large, contiguous memory space, enhancing stability and security.
- Paging and segmentation are essential techniques in memory management, allowing efficient use of physical memory and protecting process isolation.
- Intel’s progression through the 286, 386, and 486 architectures introduced critical features like protected mode, multitasking capabilities, and enhanced pipelining leading to significant improvements in performance.
Key Concepts
- -- Virtual Memory
- A memory management technique that allows programs to use a large address space by abstracting the physical memory, enhancing stability and security.
- -- Paging
- A method of dividing the logical memory into fixed-size blocks, allowing efficient use of physical memory and reducing external fragmentation.
- -- Segmentation
- A memory management technique that divides the logical address space into variable-sized segments based on program components for better management and protection.
- -- Memory Management Unit (MMU)
- A hardware component that translates logical addresses to physical addresses and manages virtual memory, including access rights and ensuring protection.
- -- Cache Memory
- A small and fast memory placed between the CPU and main memory to reduce access times for frequently used data and instructions.
- -- Superscalar Architecture
- A processor architecture that can execute multiple instructions simultaneously within a single clock cycle to increase throughput.
- -- Branch Prediction
- A technique used to improve pipeline efficiency by guessing the outcome of conditional branch instructions, reducing stall times.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.