Multiprocessor/multiarchitecture microprocessor design (M3D)

ABSTRACT

The level of support for high level programming languages (HLPLs), despite the claim of support by some of the newly introduced microprocessors, is inadequate despite the falling (rising) cost of hardware (software). Computer systems that are to be used to run programs written exclusively in HLPLs have a need for a multiprocessor/multiarchitecture microprocessor design (M3D); the personal/desk-top computers are prime examples. The HLPLs that will be used in programming these systems will be grouped according to their structures. Each group of languages will require their own instruction set; the hardware and software needs will determine the type of architecture configuration, i.e. aspects such as: register-to-register, memory-to-memory, stack, or a combination of these. The overall system should be divided up into functional units, e.g. ALU, compiler/translator, etc. Each functional or subfunctional unit will be implemented in software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of these with implementation decision based on the speed criticality, cost, technology, and the need to modify the unit. This approach will lead to a cop-down-design, and will also reduce the semantic gap, software and system cost, and down-time.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.1 PROCESSOR ARCHITECTURES

General Terms:
Design, Theory