The difference between Hardwired Control and Micro-programmed Control

The difference between Hardwired Control and Micro-programmed Control

Below are the major differences between Hardwired and Micro-programmed Control;

1. Hardwired Control units use a finite number of gates (combinational logic unit) to generate only specific results based on the instructions used (in the gates) to invoke those responses, while Micro-programmed Control units use control memory to store micro-instructions that generate control signals that dictate the responses (results).

2. While in Hardwired Control the outcomes are limited by the instructions possible by the gates (which are only few) unless it is redesigned, in Micro-programmed Control the possible results are as many as can be generated as a combination of control signals, which can be reprogrammed in the control memory.

 

Below is a simplified structure of the differences;

Hardwired Control Micro-programmed Control
Uses a finite number of gates (Combinational logic unit) Uses control memory
Generates only specific results dictated by instructions used in the gates Generate control signals that dictates results
Outcomes are limited by instructions possible by gates Possible results are as many as can be generated as a combination of control signals
Logic unit must be redesigned for different results Control memory can be reprogrammed for different results

 

The difference between Hardwired Control and Micro-programmed Control
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