Single chip microprocessor with on-chip modifiable memory
US4382279A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 1980 |
| Grant date | May 3, 1983 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 17, 2000 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F9/24
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A microprocessor architecture which permits automatic programming of a non-volatile memory included on the same chip as a processing and control unit. The microprocessor includes a permanent memory such as an EPROM which can be electrically written word by word. The microprocessor additionally includes a processing and control unit connected to the permanent memory through two sets of data and address registers. Circuits are also included for distributing memory write voltage in a manner which does not interfere with normal operation of the microprocessor. As a result, the data contents at one memory location can be modified (written) the same time instructions are being read from another memory location. Memory writing can alternatively be effected by a sub-program comprising a sequence of microinstructions, or by a write automaton comprising hard-wired logic circuits.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.