Improved Microprocessor Design.
Abstract
This report details the technical improvements proposed to provide an improved Micro Programmable Controller (MPC). The MPC is an innovative combination of hardware and software, synergistically coupled, to produce a truly distributed computer system. The hardware consists of an array of micro-computer subsystems called ports which communicate with each other via a high-speed, bidirectional, asynchronous exchange bus. These ports are capable of communicating externally via an I/O hardware interface which supports various serial protocols, such as the DDCMP. The objective of these technical design improvements was to enhance the performance of the Microprogrammable Controller (MPC) without altering its basic architectural characteristics by redefining the implementation of certain logical control elements and by migrating to hardware some control features currently accomplished in firmware. The Bus Interface Electronics and Bus Controller were redesigned to provide greater bus and port-to-port bandwidth. The Inter-Bus Link (IBL) was designed to efficiently transfer bus cycles between physically isolated exchanged busses (SSBUS). Finally, the existing MPC system-level firmware was redesigned to operate the improved MPC.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA110858
Entities
People
- J. E. Simpson
- J. H. Glende
- L. E. Klet
- M. A. Okulski
- R. E. Crandall