Subject
Computer Science
Topic
Computer Hardware
What is 'microcode' in a processor?
What is 'microcode' in a processor?
a)
The assembly language code written by a programmer.b)
A layer of low-level instructions that implement the processor's higher-level machine code.c)
A compression algorithm for storing instructions in cache.d)
A type of virus that infects the CPU itself.Explanation
In many CISC processors, the hardware doesn't execute the complex machine instructions directly. Instead, each machine instruction triggers a sequence of simpler, hardware-level instructions called micro-operations or 'microcode'. This provides a way to implement a complex instruction set on simpler hardware.Related questions
Which is best for cleaning Mylar-protected LCD screens?ESD potential decreases with the use of a:Which FRU is clearly an input/output device?A COM port is a ______ port.Which device uses IRQ 6 by default?With two IDE hard drives, the primary partition of the second drive becomes drive letter:Key difference between USB and IEEE 1394 (FireWire) is that:Which specification covers PC Card (“PCMCIA”) hard cards?