IMPACT OF PHYSICAL TECHNOLOGY ON ARCHITECTURE

The fundamental problem in the design of microprocesso rs is that of mapping an abstract computer architecture onto the physical technology in which the microproces- sor will be manufactured. Computer architectures are composed of logic and storage elements, which are abstractions. When realized in a particular technology, logic values, storage states, and the connections between elements map to logic circuits, state cir- cuits, and signals on metal interconnections in the physical technology. Inevitably, there are limitations resulting from the properties of the physical technology that determine the range of realizable architectures. In addition, there are opportunities presented when a particular architectural component maps well into the physical technology. Given the architect's goals of finding a realizable and reasonably optimal architecture that meets customer requirements, it is critically important to understand the limita- tions and opportunities arising from the physical technology.