midterm q1 solution

1) performance

We have two different processors running a set of benchmarks. Processor A executes 10 Millions instructions, has CPI 1.7.  Processor B executes 12 Millions instructions, has CPI 1.5.  Assume both processors run at the same clock rate.  Which one is faster? (show your calculation)

answer

To answer the question "which one is faster?" we compare the execution time of both processors. They ran the same set of programs.

execution time = total number of instruction executed x CPI x clock rate

assume both processors run at z GHz

execution time A = 10 M x 1.7 x z = 17M z
execution time B = 12 M x 1.5 x z = 18M z

conclusion 

Processor A takes LESS time to run the benchmark hence it is faster.