next up previous
Next: Implementation of Datapath Up: Datapath Design Previous: Combining Instruction Requirements

Defining Control Signals

Another important step in this process is the defining of the control signals necessary for the datapath to operate correctly. This is the first step toward the control logic for the datapath. These signals clarify exactly what is required of the datapath, especially the alu, for it to complete all the instructions. Control signals include not only the control for the registers but also exporting datapath values that the control logic will require the for correct program flow. Note that these will most likely change during the development of the control logic and state machine, however the more they are defined now, the less changes will have to be made when implementing the control logic.



Ian A. Buck
Wed May 20 12:50:42 EDT 1998