Introduction to bit slices and microprogramming

Bit-slice logic blocks are fourth-generation LSI components which are natural extensions of traditional multiplexers, registers, decoders, counters, ALUs, etc. Their functionality is controlled by microprogramming, typically to implement CPUs and peripheral controllers where both speed and easy programmability are required for flexibility, ease of implementation and debugging, etc. Processors built from bit-slice logic give the designer an alternative for approaching the programmability of traditional fixed-instruction-set microprocessors with a speed closer to that of hardwired 'random' logic. (2 refs).