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.

A core text for a graduate or undergraduate course in computer architecture and/or assembly language, a supplemental text for an advance computer science course, or a tutorial for computer professionals. It introduces Intel's new commercial architecture from the perspective of programmers. Annotation ©2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

JAMES S. EVANS is Professor of Computer Science and Chemistry and Director of Information Technology Planning at Lawrence University, Appleton, WI, where he teaches courses in computer architecture, hardware organization, and operating systems. He is also lead author of Alpha RISC Architecture for Programmers (Prentice Hall PTR). He holds a Ph.D. from Princeton University.

GREGORY L. TRIMPER is Principal of viika, a consultancy specializing in portable technology and field computing, software design and implementation, and project management. He holds a B.A. from Lawrence University and pursues further studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.