On 11/22/23 19:08, ben via cctalk wrote: > for the most common sequences being shorter. 8 bit bytes only give space > for byte or word instructions, not both. Prefix bytes are good > compromise with the segmented 64K memory space. Data and code space are > optimized for 16 bits. You want 32 bits, buy a 432. Still only 64Kb > segments.
If we're talking technical merits among contemporary designs, I'd say that the Zilog Z8000 was the better choice compared to the 8086 (both were introduced within months of one another). But Zilog was operating under the Exxon mis-management at the time, and nobody was sure about the company's survival. There were translation programs from Z80 to Z8000. -Chuck
