Introduction to ARM Processors: Modern Processor Features and Cortex-A9 Microarchitecture Analysis

Previous Articles:

  • Introduction to ARM Processors 1 - Overview

Introduction

This article is the second part of the introduction series on ARM processors, mainly introducing some basic technologies and concepts of modern superscalar out-of-order processors. We will take the Cortex-A9 processor as an example to see which technologies are used to enhance performance, laying the foundation for our subsequent understanding of the microarchitecture of ARM processors and comparative analysis.

Note: In fact, explaining the key points of modern processor technology can be quite complicated.

Understanding ARM TrustZone Architecture for Enhanced Security

Official Block Diagram

    • 1. ARMv7

    • 2. ARMv8

      • (1) aarch32

      • (2) aarch64

      • (3) Summary of arch32 and aarch64

      • (4) Understanding with Code

    • 3. Cortex-A9 architecture

1. ARMv7

Understanding ARM TrustZone Architecture for Enhanced Security

2. ARMv8

(1) aarch32

Understanding ARM TrustZone Architecture for Enhanced Security

(2) aarch64

Understanding ARM TrustZone Architecture for Enhanced Security

(3) Summary of arch32 and aarch64

Understanding aarch32 and aarch64 under armv7:

  • If both secureos and monitor are 64-bit, secureos runs at el1, monitor runs at el3;

  • If both secureos and monitor are 32-bit, both run at EL3 (secureos

Understanding ARM Architecture and Processors

2. ARM Architecture and Processors

ARM does not manufacture silicon devices. Instead, ARM creates microprocessor designs that are licensed to semiconductor companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), who integrate them into system-on-chip (SoC) devices.

To ensure compatibility between different implementations, ARM defines architectural specifications that dictate how compliant products should behave. Processors implementing the ARM architecture must conform to specific versions of the architecture.

The ARM architecture supports implementations across a very wide range of performance points. Its simplicity allows for very small

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