Research project for high performance, low cost computing. Uses stack-based instructions for a 4-way VLIW processor. Implemented in current technology, it would outrun high-end DSPs (TMS 320C6x, TigerSHARC), and let the full program run on one processor, with no further RISC core.

Goal: dominate very low cost, low power, single core CPU market, and have the only ultra-high-end supercomputer on-a-chip system. Because the CPU core is so small, it is possible to put 1000s of cores and memory in one IC chip package.

References, links to Forth and stack machines in various technologies.

Implementation of the Java VM as soft processor core in an FPGA for embedded real-time systems. [Free for personal use or for educational purpose]

Stack-based processors, 5-bit words, 25 instructions, 7000 transistors, 80 MIPS, 50 milliwatts, low cost; designed by Chuck Moore, creator of Forth programming language.

Minimal instruction set, small, low power 16-bit CPU optimized to run Forth on a Xilinx FPGA. When system is stable, VHDL source code for CPU and all other code will be released to make a full open source public domain CPU.

Uses of Forth microprocessors and programming language: controllers for spacecraft flight systems, on-board payload experiments, ground support; hardware or software to build or test flight or ground systems.

Designs, builds: single board computers (SBC), peripherals, embedded systems, PCB design/layout, high level programming (industry leaders in Forth), custom design work; large line of stock products: from full handheld computers to development packages. Since 1980.

Small, fast stack-based processor for FPGAs. CPU prototyped and debugged in ANS Forth. A simple RTL-specific language extension provides discrete event simulation for structural model of CPU and allows concise architecture representation.

Makes IGNITE I ROSC (Removed Operand Set Computer), PSC1000 32-bit embedded shBoom-based microprocessor line, many ISDN interface products, sophisticated antenna/radar technologies.

Course on minimal processors: Guided Exploration of two FPGA-based CPU Designs, led by John Rible.

Philip J. Koopman, Jr., CMU page. Many reports, studies, links. Compares: CISC, RISC, Stack systems; 2 & 3 stack systems. Excellent resource.

By Philip J. Koopman, Jr.; Ellis Horwood, 1989. No longer printed, available on-line in HTML or PDF formats.

Embedded systems consultant for small (8/16-bit) and distributed microprocessor systems. Contract hardware and software development for most microcontrollers. Specialist: Forth, Assembly, C. By Bradford J. Rodriguez, Ph.D.

Explains extreme, simple RISC, with only one instruction, move memory to memory; yet it is useful. Revision of paper first published in ACM Computer Architecture News.

Small, powerful Forth embedded computers: let you quickly design applications: controls, portable instruments, terminals, data loggers, GPS, CAN bus, multitasking, LCD and keyboard systems. High level language makes development simple and fast; needs no PROM programmer. Forth hardware and software.