APL[LAVAL] used as an interactive tool for the description, simulation and micro-programming of digital computers

This paper presents the use of APL [LAVAL] for the complete study of a digital computer at the micro-programmed control level. For us such a study signifies the description, simulation (i.e. behavorial description), and the creation of a set of micro-programming aids such as: an appropriate micro-programming language, its assembler and its linkage editor. A general and systematic approach will be presented concerning the description and simulation phase. This method has been used to study a number of existing machines and could be applied in the design phase of new machines.