Complex Instruction Set Computing

A complex instruction set computer (CISC, /ˈsɪsk/) is a computer where single instructions can execute several low-level operations (such as a load from memory, an arithmetic operation, and a memory store) and/or are capable of multi-step operations or addressing modes within single instructions. The term was retroactively coined in contrast to reduced instruction set computer (RISC).

Examples of CISC instruction set architectures are System/360 through z/Architecture, PDP-11, VAX, Motorola 68k, and x86.

Famous quotes containing the words complex, instruction and/or set:

    Uneducated people are unfortunate in that they do grasp complex issues, educated people, on the other hand, often do not understand simplicity, which is a far greater misfortune.
    Franz Grillparzer (1791–1872)

    A little instruction in the elements of chartography—a little practice in the use of the compass and the spirit level, a topographical map of the town common, an excursion with a road map—would have given me a fat round earth in place of my paper ghost.
    Mary Antin (1881–1949)

    I do not set my life at a pin’s fee,
    And for my soul, what can it do to that,
    Being a thing immortal as itself?
    William Shakespeare (1564–1616)