1-bit computing

This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Guy Harris (talk | contribs) at 07:57, 1 August 2012 (After cleaning up white space with {{N-bit}}, we need to put the blank line back.). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.

In computer architecture, 1-bit integers, memory addresses, or other data units are those that are 1 bits (1/8 octets) wide. Also, 1-bit central processing unit (CPU) and arithmetic logic unit (ALU) architectures are those that are based on registers, address buses, or data buses of that size.

An example of a 1-bit architecture actually marketed as a CPU is Motorola's MC14500 Industrial Control Unit.[1] There are also several design studies for 1-bit architectures in academia, and corresponding 1-bit logic can also be found in programming.

Other examples of 1-bit architectures are programmable logic controllers.

A typical sequence of instructions from a program for a 1-bit architecture might be:

  • load digital input 1 into a 1-bit register;
  • (OR the value in the 1-bit register with input 2, leaving the result in the register;
  • write the value in the 1-bit register to output 1.


References

  1. ^ "MC14500B Industrial Control Unit. Semiconductor Technical Data, Rev. 3" (PDF). Motorola. 1995. Retrieved August 1, 2012.