MICROPROCESSOR

A microprocessor, sometimes called a logic chip, is a computer processor on a microchip.

The microprocessor contains all, or most of, the central processing unit (CPU) functions and is the "engine" that goes into motion when you turn your computer on. A microprocessor is designed to perform arithmetic and logic operations that make use of small number-holding areas called registers. Typical microprocessor operations include adding, subtracting, comparing two numbers, and fetching numbers from one area to another. These operations are the result of a set of instructions that are part of the microprocessor design.

When your computer is turned on, the microprocessor gets the first instruction from the basic input/output system (BIOS) that comes with the computer as part of its memory. After that, either the BIOS, or the operating system that BIOS loads into computer memory, or an application progam is "driving" the microprocessor, giving it instructions to perform.

My First 4-bit Machine

This is my first processor design which is a 4-bit processor. The objective of this project is to develop a simple processor with TTL logic for educational purpose. This processor will be used as a learning tool for Computer System Architecture class. To complete this project, the scope of study covers the state of the art of computer system architecture and Central Processing Unit (CPU). The CPU datapath design and hardware circuit design is based on the MIPS single-cycle processor. The methodologies that will be involved in this project are design and validation phase, constructing the hardware, software development and then interfacing phase through serial communication between CPU hardware and a graphic user interface using microcontroller. The prototype would be used as a learning tool in Computer System Architecture class to assist student in understanding the computer system architecture. Figure below shows the design processor fabricated on PCB.

Then, figure below shows the full system of this educational processor.

The CPU functional unit is designed and fabricated part by part and then they are combined together to get a completed full run working CPU with interfacing to a Graphic User Interface via serial communication between computer and microcontroller. Hopefully, this simple 4-bit machine can provide a new learning environment for computer system architecture student to explore on how a microprocessor works.