On the syntax and semantics of horizontal microprogramming languages

ABSTRACT

Horizontally microprogrammable computers provide the potential for efficient use of hardware through parallel operation of internal resources. Present languages for microprogramming such computers, however, contain unnatural symbolism, inflexible format requirements, and unnecessary constraints which make their use rather difficult. The intrinsic characteristics of horizontally microprogrammable machines suggest the use of operator precedence languages to program them. The syntax of a language, ANIMIL, is formally described along these lines and some initial ideas on semantics of languages for horizontally microprogrammable machines are discussed.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.3 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
      D.3.1 Formal Definitions and Theory

Additional Classification:
  B. Hardware
  B.1 CONTROL STRUCTURES AND MICROPROGRAMMING

General Terms:
Languages, Theory