Data base processor technology
AFIPS '76 Proceedings of the June 7-10, 1976, national computer conference and exposition
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The emphasis in contemporary microprocessor development has been on 8-bit word lengths. Unfortunately, for many applications, the 8-bit microprocessor cannot provide the required accuracy, throughput, programming ease, or flexibility. The multichip 16-bit processor has been cost effective in many of these applications, but has provided unused flexibility or speed (at extra cost) in others. National Semiconductor has developed a single-chip 16-bit microprocessor, the Processing and Control Element (PACE), to provide the benefits of a 16-bit CPU with greater simplicity than the multi-chip design. The benefits accrue from integrating the functions of not only the multi-chip CPU, but also most of the functions that were previously implemented with TTL devices.