PowerPC: a performance architecture

The authors provide an overview of the PowerPC architecture. Some of the issues and decisions that helped shape this architecture are discussed. This architecture has incorporated the needs and ideas of leading software, system, and microprocessor design engineers. With input from this broad spectrum, the designers of PowerPC emerged with an architecture built for high-performance first-generation implementations, while maintaining room for maximum expandability. In addition, the PowerPC architecture was specifically designed to make it possible to implement high-performance single-chip processors. This allows for a balance between maximum performance, ease of manufacturability, and low price.<>