A microprogrammable list processor for personal computers

摘要

A low-cost alternative to using a full-scale Lisp machine for list processing is proposed. The ASLP, a PC-based, highly pipelined list processor with two memory modules, supplements a procedural programming language to solve the list-manipulation problems in AI programs. This hardware-assisted processor was designed for use on an IBM PC AT to support list-manipulation functions. A discussion of Lisp and its internal structure and a review of existing Lisp machines are included. An estimation of the theoretical execution time for some typical list-manipulation functions, expressed in terms of machine cycles and memory cycles, is presented.