Type-Selective Microcode Instructions for Compact Control Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microcode instructions are often large in size, requiring significant memory capacity and inefficient storage and execution, as they include fixed control bits for various operations that are not simultaneously executable.
Innovation Solution
Implementing microcode instructions with a type select field that dynamically indicates the operation type, allowing control bits to vary based on the instruction type, reducing the overall size and memory requirements while maintaining functional capability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed control bits are included for various operations in microcode instructions, then functional capability is maintained, but microcode instruction size increases and memory capacity utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal microcode instruction format where control bits can dynamically serve different functions based on an operation code field. The same control bits can indicate different operations (e.g., read, write, refresh, error correction) depending on the operation code, allowing one microcode instruction to perform multiple functions rather than requiring separate fixed-format instructions for each operation type.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcode instruction format transitions from static fixed control bits to dynamic interpretable control bits. The control bits are no longer assigned to specific fixed functions but are dynamically interpreted based on the operation code, allowing the instruction format to adapt its meaning and function based on contextual information within the same instruction structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If large microcode instruction size is used to maintain functional capability, then all operations can be controlled, but memory capacity utilization and storage efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
By creating a universal control bit structure that can interpret different functions based on operation codes, the patent enables a compact microcode instruction format that maintains full operational control capability. The same set of control bits serves multiple operations, reducing the total number of bits needed compared to having dedicated control bits for each operation type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of multiple separate control bit fields into a single dynamic control bit field that is interpreted based on the operation code. Instead of having separate control sections for read operations, write operations, refresh operations, etc., the control bits are combined into a unified structure whose meaning is determined by the operation code, thereby reducing overall instruction size while maintaining control over all operations.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes apparatuses and methods related to microcode instructions indicating instruction types. One example apparatus comprises a memory storing a set of microcode instructions. Each microcode instruction of the set can comprise a first field comprising a number of control data units, and a second field comprising a number of type select data units. Each microcode instruction of the set can have a particular instruction type defined by a value of the number of type select data units, and particular functions corresponding to the number of control data units are variable based on the particular instruction type.