Modified Harvard Architecture

Modified Harvard Architecture is a computer architecture design that combines elements of both Harvard and von Neumann architectures. It features separate instruction and data caches for improved performance, while allowing them to share a common main memory space. This hybrid approach enables faster instruction fetching and data access, commonly used in modern processors like DSPs and microcontrollers.

Also known as: Modified Harvard, Harvard-von Neumann hybrid, Split-cache architecture, MHA, Harvard with unified memory

Why learn Modified Harvard Architecture?

Developers should understand this architecture when working on embedded systems, real-time applications, or digital signal processing where performance and efficiency are critical. It's particularly relevant for optimizing code on processors like ARM Cortex-M or TI DSPs, as it affects memory access patterns and cache behavior.

Learning Resources

• docs: ARM Cortex-M Architecture Guide
• book: Computer Organization and Design: The Hardware/Software Interface
• course: Embedded Systems Architecture on Coursera
• video: Harvard vs. von Neumann Architecture Explained
• tutorial: TI DSP Architecture Tutorial