On hardware/software trade-offs in computer system design

Abstract

The communication path between the computer users and the computer manufacturer is not a very effective one, but it is the vehicle whereby hardware/software trade-offs are realized. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the concept of hardware/software trade-offs from the perspective of the hardware designer. Primarily, the paper will examine software oriented functions/goals/requirements and discuss considerations in determining the kind of hardware support which would be involved in implementing the particular concept. © 1983.