Content area
The linkage editing problem involving software (the macrolevel) and microcode (the microlevel) is described in terms of alternate naming and binding abstractions. It becomes necessary to rethink the linkage editing process when the objective is to achieve maximum performance through migration of functions from software to microcode. An object-oriented model of naming and binding is proposed that clarifies the alternative abstractions available in naming and linking across the macro-micro machine environment. It is demonstrated that flexible approaches can be implemented with high performance results at run time. In the process, abstractions essential to the understanding of linkage editing across the micromachine boundary are clarified. The object-oriented view has been found to be absolutely necessary for understanding the design options available in vertical migration naming and binding.