A hypothetical computer to simulate microprogramming and conventional machine language

ABSTRACT

Microprogramming is no generally available to programmers because it may involve modification of a machine's native language. A hypothetical computer can provide a simulator for microprogramming projects and add considerably to one's understanding of the subject of microprogramming and the concept of a multilevel machine. The classical text, Structured Computer Organization by Andrew S. Tanenbaum, contains a design for such a hypothetical computer. This paper presents an implementation of this machine with a user interface to permit development of microprograms as well as development of programs at the conventional machine language programming level. The user interface is similar to that of MS-DOS's DEBUG program. In addition to providing the basis for projects in Computer Architecture and Computer Organization classes, the simulator is being used as a simplified hypothetical machine in a Systems Programming class for the development of assembler, linker, and loader projects.

REFERENCES

• 1: A. Tanenbaum, Structured computer organization; (2nd ed.), Prentice-Hall, Inc., Upper Saddle River, NJ, 1984
• 2: Ibid., pp. 4--7.
• 3: Ibid., p. 6.
• 4: Ibid., p. 127.
• 5: Ibid., p. 141.
• 6: Ibid., p. 130.
• 7: MS-DOS is a trademark of MICROSOFT Corporation.
• 8: The simulator, MAL assembler, and a MAC-1 assembler are available for a nominal charge to cover equipment costs and handling fees. Send inquiries to: MIC-1 Simulator, Department of Computer and Information Sciences, East Tennessee State University, P. O. Box 23, 830A, Johnson City, Tennessee 37614

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.4 PERFORMANCE OF SYSTEMS
      Subjects: Modeling techniques

Additional Classification:
  B. Hardware
  B.1 CONTROL STRUCTURES AND MICROPROGRAMMING
      B.1.2 Control Structure Performance Analysis and Design Aids
          Subjects: Simulation**

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors, Management, Performance