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:

    By “object” is meant some element in the complex whole that is defined in abstraction from the whole of which it is a distinction.
    John Dewey (1859–1952)

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    To Time it never seems that he is brave
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    Nor is he overjoyed when they lie low,
    But only grave, contemplative and grave.
    Robert Frost (1874–1963)