The PowerPC 603 microprocessor

In October 1993, Motorola and IBM unveiled the first low-power version of the PowerPC family - the PowerPC 603 microprocessor. The 603 is comparable in performance to present-day high-end personal computer and workstation processors. This member of the PowerPC family is designed to bring high-performance and low-end capabilities to the laptop and low-cost desktop computer markets. The 603 microprocessor was developed at the joint Motorola/IBM/Apple Somerset Design Center in Austin, Texas. The 603 microarchitecture evolved from Apple, IBM, and Motorola's collective experience on several past designs. To accelerate the design and test process, engineers employed a formal VLSI design methodology derived from the best of both IBM and Motorola's CAD tools. Using the best tools and methodology available, the design team took the 603 from concept to working silicon in 18 months. The factors that contribute to the efficient flow of instructions and data through the 603 are detailed.