A New Approach to the Functional Design of a Digital Computer

The present methods of determining the functional design of computers are critically reviewed and a new approach proposed. This is illustrated by explaining, in abstracted form, part of the control organization of a new and different machine based, in part, on the ALGOL 60 language. The concepts of expression and procedure lead directly to use of a Polish string program. A new arrangement of control registers results, which provides for automatic allocation of temporary storage within expressions and procedures, and a generalized subroutine linkage. The simplicity and power of these notions suggests that there is much room for improvement in present machines and that more attention should be given to control functions in new designs.(1961).