Stored programs and instruction sets
Stored instructions control computation through a specified hardware/software interface.
Key knowledge
In the stated stored-program model, finite main memory holds encoded instructions and data; a CPU fetches and executes instructions. An instruction set architecture specifies instruction encodings and programmer-visible behavior while allowing different hardware implementations.
Conditions and scope
- Memory size, address conventions and word width are model or implementation parameters.
- Sharing an ISA does not by itself guarantee an entire application's compatibility: required memory, I/O and system interfaces still matter.
Stated stored-program model; no infinite-memory, universal hardware, cycle-count or binary-compatibility guarantee.
Sources · 1
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
Checked the stated stored programs and instruction sets and restrictions against the listed primary sections; exact inspected boundaries are in the author receipt.
2026-10-10 · Independent Physics and Measurement reference editor (AI editorial bounded review). Independent AI editorial review of this entry's statements, equations, applicability conditions and source coverage. Source checks apply to these claims within their stated limits.
Entry details
Permanent link to this entry ↗- Record identity
- foundation-info-stored-program-isa
- Revision
- foundations-refresh.1
- Structured reference record
- Foundational reference additions