Stack Computers: the new wave © Copyright 1989, Philip Koopman, All Rights Reserved.

Chapter 8
Applications

Stack machines, like most computers, are suitable for a wide variety of applications. Any system in which a high speed processor with low system complexity is needed is a good candidate for using a stack processor. Section 8.1 discusses one application area that has these requirements, and which is an ideal match for stack processors. That application area is real time embedded control. Real time control applications require small size, low weight, low cost, low power, and high reliability.

Section 8.2 examines the different capabilities and tradeoffs inherent in the choice between 16-bit and 32-bit hardware. The selection of the correctly sized processor is vital to the success of a design.

Section 8.3 discusses system implementation considerations. The choice between hardwired and microcoded systems involves tradeoffs among complexity, speed, and flexibility. The choice of integration level similarly affects system characteristics.

Section 8.4 lists eleven broad areas suitable for stack processors, with detailed lists of possible applications.

• 8.1 REAL TIME EMBEDDED CONTROL
  • 8.1.1 Requirements of real time control
  • 8.1.2 How stack machines meet these needs
• 8.2 16-BIT VERSUS 32-BIT HARDWARE
  • 8.2.1 16-Bit hardware often best
  • 8.2.2 32-Bit hardware is sometimes required
• 8.3 SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION APPROACHES
  • 8.3.1 Hardwired systems vs. microcoded systems
  • 8.3.2 Integration level and system cost/performance
• 8.4 EXAMPLE APPLICATION AREAS

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Phil Koopman -- koopman@cmu.edu