CSE 141L
Frequently Asked Questions For Lab 4

Fall 2003


1. What files should we submit electronically?

Only the LogicWorks 4 files that relate directly to the operation of your processor need to be submitted. This includes any schematic and user created library files that you think might be necessary.


2. Do we need to bring a hardcopy report to our demonstration?

Yes. Your written reports are to be submitted at the beginning of your demonstration.


3. Will data memory blocks be prepared in advance for us to put into our schematics?

No. Due to the varying structure of each group's schematics, no actual components will be placed into your schematic during your demonstration. However, values supplied by the TAs will be loaded into your DMem (RAM) module before each program is tested.


4. Should we submit multiple processor schematics (i.e. one for each program) since IMem cannot be reprogrammed?

Yes. Ideally, once you finish with your design, you should make a copy of it for each of the three programs to be run. This will help your demonstration flow more smoothly and will reduce the probability of lines not getting connected before being tested by the TAs.


5. Should the reset switch force the processor back to PC 0 and begin execution, even if a halt instruction has been issued?

Yes. Reset always takes precedence.


6. What sort of test cases can we expect to see for each of the programs?

Anything that does not violate the constraints given in the Lab 1 project specifications is considered fair game.


7. How many different test cases will we have to run on our processor?

There will be three (3) test cases total; one for each program. Your processor should be able to run all three of these test cases in about ten (10) minutes on the lab machines in AP&M 2444.


8. Will we be penalized if our processor does not finish executing one or more of the test cases during our demonstration?

Yes. Cases that are unable to be run due to time constraints caused by unpreparedness on the part of your group, failure to show on time, or inefficient algorithms/designs will be counted as having failed those tests.


9. Will there be partial credit awarded for programs that perform part of a task (i.e. a program that sorts memory contents, but does not compute the correct median)?

No. A wrong answer in DMem[2] is considered a failure on the part of the program, no matter how much work it performed before getting that answer.


10. Can we use our own machine for our demonstration?

No. Your processor must be demonstrated on one of the lab machines in AP&M 2444.


11. Can demonstration times be rescheduled?

Barring some type of emergency situtation involving an entire group, no demonstration appointments will be rescheduled. Groups will not be docked points for members missing due to emergency situations.


Last Modified: November 23, 2003