초록 ▼

An identification apparatus and method for identifying the microprocessor, including a read-only memory for storing microprocessor ID data having data fields for identifying the microprocessor, and control logic for executing an ID instruction that reads the microprocessor ID data from the read-only

An identification apparatus and method for identifying the microprocessor, including a read-only memory for storing microprocessor ID data having data fields for identifying the microprocessor, and control logic for executing an ID instruction that reads the microprocessor ID data from the read-only memory and stores it in a register that can be selectively read by a programmer. The identification apparatus and method also include an ID flag indicative of implementation of the ID instruction in the microprocessor, and a test flag program for testing the ID flag to determine whether or not to execute the ID instruction. The method is available at any time while the microprocessor is operating, for example during initialization of the system software, installation of a program, or while a program is running. Once a microprocessor has been identified, features appropriate to the specific microprocessor can be enabled, and work-around programs can be installed. The method prevents execution of the ID instruction on microprocessors that do not have the identification system, and prevents execution of the test flag program on microprocessors that do not have a test flag location. The invention is particularly useful for groups of compatible microprocessor families whose development is continually advancing with introduction of new families and models.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] In a microprocessor formed on an integrated circuit, an identification apparatus for identifying the microprocessor in response to a supplied ID instruction, said identification apparatus comprising:a first register for storing and reading data;a read-only memory storing

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] In a microprocessor formed on an integrated circuit, an identification apparatus for identifying the microprocessor in response to a supplied ID instruction, said identification apparatus comprising:a first register for storing and reading data;a read-only memory storing microprocessor ID data including data fields that identify the microprocessor type;a decoder for receiving and decoding an ID instruction; andcontrol circuitry coupled to the first register, the read-only memory and the decoder, including ID instruction execution means responsive to a decoded ID instruction including for executing the ID instruction received from the decoder, including reading the microprocessor ID data from the read-only memory and storing said microprocessor ID data in the first register.