Fast multi-step addition algorithm

A fast multi-step addition algorithm is presented which uses half-adders as the basic adding cells. In this addition algorithm, the generated carry ripples through half-adders instead of full-adders as in conventional addition algorithms, resulting in a cut in the propagation delay time to one half. It is found that adders using this addition algorithm are of comparable hardware complexity to that of a conventional ripple carry adder, but with lower propagation delay time.