The Significance of Microprogramming

Abstract

Three phenomena are considered first in the paper: the evolution of microprogramming, the use of interpretation, and the practice of computer architecture. In the latter instance the idea of ''reasonability'' is introduced with respect to machines. Based on these phenomena, five possible meanings of ''microprogramming'' are introduced and either totally or partially rejected before a new definition is finally put forth. To appear in the Proceedings of the International Computing Symposium (Davos, September 1973).