Itanium Architecture for Programmers: Understanding 64-Bit Processors and EPIC Principles

• Step-by-step guide to assembly language for the 64-bit Itanium processors, with extensive examples
• Details of Explicitly Parallel Instruction Computing (EPIC): Instruction set, addressing, register stack engine, predication, I/O, procedure calls, floating-point operations, and more
• Learn how to comprehend and optimize open source, Intel, and HP-UX compiler output

Itanium® Architecture for Programmers is a comprehensive introduction to the breakthrough capabilities of the new 64-bit Itanium architecture. Using standard command-line tools and extensive examples, the authors illuminate the Itanium design within the broader context of contemporary computer architecture via a step-by-step investigation of Itanium assembly language. Coverage includes:

• The potential of Explicitly Parallel Instruction Computing (EPIC)
• Itanium instruction formats and addressing modes
• Innovations such as the register stack engine (RSE) and extensive predication
• Procedure calls and procedure-calling mechanisms
• Floating-point operations
• I/O techniques, from simple debugging to the use of files
• Optimization of output from open source, Intel, and HP-UX compilers

An essential resource for both computing professionals and students of architecture or assembly language, Itanium Architecture for Programmers includes extensive printed and Web-based references, plus many numeric, essay, and programming exercises for each chapter.