=== Programmable Array Logic (PAL) ===
Introduced PALs, introduced in 1978 by Monolithic Memories in 1978, PALs quickly found applications became important in many 8-bit computer systemscomputers. They featured a programmable AND array and a fixed OR array, making them useful for handling simple logic tasks. PALs came in one-time programmable or UV-erasable versions, offering flexibility to developers.
Key characteristics:* Featured a programmable AND array followed by a fixed OR array* One-time programmable (OTP) or UV-erasable versions available* Relatively fast and suitable common use for simple logic functionsPALs was address decoding, which enabled memory bank switching, allowing computers to access more memory than their basic design supported. PALs were also used to simplify communication between the CPU and peripherals.
Applications:* Address decoding: PALs were often used to decode memory addressesFor example, allowing for memory bank switching, a common technique in 8-bit computers to expand beyond their native address space.* I/O interface logic: They simplified the interface between the CPU and various peripherals.* Example: The Amstrad CPC 6128 used a PAL for part of its to manage memory management and bank switching logic, showing how these chips helped improve performance in small, affordable computers.
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