10

A Closer Look at the ARM

We have already introduced the ARM processor. Now, we will look at it in a little more depth. The ARM family of processors is probably the best vehicle to teach computer architecture. In particular, it is very easy to learn because of its streamlined instruction set and simple register model compared to many other microprocessors.Moreover, the ARM has some very interesting features, such as predicated execution when an instruction can either be executed or ignored, depending on the processor status. The introduction of the Raspberry Pi in computer education could not have happened at a better time because it enables students to get hands-on experience of the remarkable ARM architecture.

In this chapter, we will do the following:

• Introduce the ARM
• Describe its register set
• Examine variations in add and subtract operations
• Cover the ARM’s multiplication instruction
• Introduce logical operations and shifting operations
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