ACtE04 · Chapter 4Computer Organization & Embedded Systems🏛️ Past Licensure QuestionID: 23058635
Which of the following is a primary architectural feature of a typical Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC)?
Which of the following is a primary architectural feature of a typical Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC)?
Multiple Choice Options
- A
Microprogrammed control unit
- B
Variable-length complex instructions requiring multiple clock cycles
- C
Small register file with few general-purpose registers
- D✓ Correct Option
Heavy emphasis on optimizing instruction pipelines with single-cycle execution
Detailed Technical Solution & Explanation
RISC architectures are engineered around simple, uniform 32-bit instructions that execute in a single clock cycle through deep, streamlined instruction pipelines. RISC relies on hardwired control units (not microprogrammed), large register files (typically registers), and load/store memory operations.
Option Analysis:
•
Option A (Microprogrammed control unit): Characteristic of CISC, not RISC (which uses fast hardwired control).
•
Option B (Variable-length complex instructions requiring multiple clock cycles): Characteristic of CISC (e.g., x86).
•
Option C (Small register file with few general-purpose registers): Characteristic of early CISC; RISC has large register files.
•
Option D (Heavy emphasis on optimizing instruction pipelines with single-cycle execution): Correct; foundational principle of RISC design.
Reference: Mock Test 06NEC Licensure Syllabus