Scalar processors represent a class of computer processors. A scalar processor processes only one data item at a time, with typical data items being integers or floating point numbers.[1] A scalar processor is classified as a single instruction, single data (SISD) processor in Flynn’s taxonomy. The Intel 486 is an example of a scalar processor.

Other

In contrast, in a vector processor, a single instruction operates simultaneously on multiple data items (and thus is referred to as a single instruction, multiple data (SIMD) processor).[2] The difference is analogous to the difference between scalar and vector arithmetic.

A superscalar processor (such as the Intel P5), on the other hand, may execute more than one instruction during a clock cycle by simultaneously dispatching multiple instructions to redundant functional units on the processor. Each functional unit is not a separate CPU core but an execution resource within a single CPU such as an arithmetic logic unit, a bit shifter, or a multiplier.[1] The Cortex-M7, like many consumer CPUs today, is a superscalar processor.[3]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b Ram, Badri (2001). Advanced microprocessors and interfacing. New Delhi: Tata McGraw-Hill Pub. Co. p. 11. ISBN 978-0-07-043448-6. OCLC 55946893.
  2. ^ Patterson, David (2012). Computer organization and design: the hardware/software interface. Waltham, MA: Morgan Kaufmann. p. 650. ISBN 978-0-12-374750-1. OCLC 746618653.
  3. ^ “Cortex-M7”. Arm Developer. Arm Limited. Retrieved 2021-07-03.