An integer programming approach to instruction implementation method selection problem

A new algorithm for instruction implementation method selection problem (IMSP) in application specific integrated processors (ASIP) design automation is proposed. This problem is to be solved in the instruction set architecture and CPU core architecture designs. First, the IMSP is formalized as an integer programming problem, which is to maximize the performance of the CPU under the constraints of chip area and power consumption. Then, a branch-and-bound algorithm to solve IMSP is described. According to the experimental results, the proposed algorithm is quite effective and efficient in solving the IMSP. This algorithm will automate the complex parts of the ASIP chip design.<>