Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
RISC
Reduced instruction set computing (RISC) is based on the principle that having a simple
instruction set for a processor improves performance. The logic is that the more you
can ask of a complex processor, the slower it becomes. Thus a processor that is capable
of a smaller set of tasks can complete them more quickly. The Advanced RISC Machine
(ARM) is a popular processor found in many mobile computing devices, including cell
phones and hand-held game machines. In contrast, most personal computer processors
are considered complex instruction set computing (CISC), having a comparatively large
instruction set for greater fl exibility.
Processors work only with binary digits, so the OS translates all numbers to the binary
numbering system in order to send them for processing. Humans most commonly use
the decimal numbering system (digits 0 through 9). Computers typically use hexadecimal
numbering (16 digits, 0 through 9 plus A through F) or binary numbering (2 digits, 0 and 1).
Binary is used when interacting with the processor, and hexadecimal is used when the OS
refers to memory addresses. Exercise 1.1 demonstrates how to convert between binary and
other numbering systems.
EXERCISE 1.1
Convert Between Binary and Other Numbering Systems
1.
In Windows 7, open the Calculator application.
2. Choose View Programmer to switch to Programmer view, as shown here. Notice that
the Dec radio button is selected, indicating decimal numbering.
Search WWH ::




Custom Search