Introduction:
In computer architecture, a control unit is responsible for directing the flow of data and instructions within a computer system. A hardwired control unit is a control unit that is built using combinational logic circuits, such as AND, OR, and NOT gates. There are several methods of implementing a hardwired control unit, and the simplest method among them is the State Table Method.


The state table method is a technique used to design a hardwired control unit based on a state machine. It involves creating a state table that defines the control signals to be generated for each state of the machine. The state table is then used to determine the logic equations for generating these control signals.

Steps involved in the State Table Method:
1. Identify the states: The first step in the state table method is to identify the states that the control unit can be in. Each state represents a specific configuration of the control signals.

2. Create the state table: Once the states are identified, a state table is created. The state table has a row for each state and columns for each control signal. Each entry in the state table represents the value of a control signal for a particular state.

3. Determine the next state: Based on the current state and the inputs, the next state is determined. This is done by analyzing the behavior of the system and identifying the transitions between states.

4. Define the control signals: For each state, the control signals are defined based on the desired behavior of the system. This involves determining the logic equations for generating the control signals.

5. Implement the control unit: Finally, the control unit is implemented using combinational logic circuits. The logic equations derived from the state table are used to design the circuitry that generates the control signals.


- Simplicity: The state table method is relatively simple and easy to understand, making it suitable for small and less complex systems.
- Modularity: The control unit designed using the state table method can be easily modified or expanded by adding or modifying states in the state table.
- Deterministic: The behavior of the control unit is deterministic and can be precisely defined based on the state table.

In conclusion, the state table method is the simplest method of implementing a hardwired control unit. It involves creating a state table, determining the next state, defining the control signals, and implementing the control unit using combinational logic circuits. The state table method provides simplicity, modularity, and determinism, making it a suitable choice for smaller and less complex systems.