Clipper architecture

The Clipper processor was a 32 -bit RISC processor by Fairchild Semiconductor. Compared to other RISC processors, the Clipper had a relatively extensive command set, which was realized by integrated in the processor function libraries.

First, under the designation C100 produced Fairchild Semiconductor the three- chip processor. The CPU chip is supported by two so-called CAMMUs, cache and MMU unit (cache and MMU), one for commands and one for data. The three chips were supplied mounted on a board as a module.

The Clipper was due to relatively high cost, despite its good performance only a few customers. In addition, at the time of launch were already introduced in 1986, several other 32 -bit architectures well in the market, so that a relatively expensive new architecture had little chance.

After 1987 Fairchild Semiconductor was acquired by National Semiconductor, the situation for the Clipper processor deteriorated further, as National Semiconductor with the NS320xx already had a few successful 32 -bit processor family in their own home. The entire Clipper department was then sold to the highest Clipper Customers Intergraph. Intergraph presented in 1988 before the C300 and 1990 C400. Work on another successor were later discontinued.

Various patents, specifically to techniques that were used in the CAMMUs led later to a dispute between Intergraph and Intel, as well as other companies, because many newer processors use these techniques.

• Microprocessor