A partial data path of a processor is given in the figure, where RA, RB, and RZ are 32-bit registers. Which option(s) is/are CORRECT related to arithmetic operations using the data path as shown?
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GATE CSE 2025 Set 1 · Q27
Time

Select all that applyOne or more correct
Solution
Official answer: A) The data path can implement arithmetic operations involving two registers.; B) The data path can implement arithmetic operations involving one register and one immediate value.; C) The data path can implement arithmetic operations involving two immediate values.
ALU DesignFrom the given data path:
has two inputs: the 32-bit register and a 32-bit immediate value, controlled by the signal Select RA/immediate.
has two inputs: the 32-bit register and a 32-bit immediate value, controlled by the signal Select RB/immediate.
Both inputs to the ALU are fed from the outputs of and respectively, and the result is stored in the 32-bit register .
Since both multiplexers can be controlled independently:
Two registers: Selecting through Mux_A and through Mux_B feeds both registers into the ALU, allowing arithmetic operations involving two registers. Hence, (A) is correct.
One register and one immediate value: Selecting and the immediate value (or and the immediate value) allows arithmetic operations involving one register and one immediate value. Hence, (B) is correct.
Two immediate values: Selecting the immediate value from both Mux_A and Mux_B allows arithmetic operations involving two immediate values. Hence, (C) is correct.
(D) is incorrect because the datapath is not restricted to *only* one register and one immediate value.
Thus, the correct options are A, B, and C.
Try the question first, then check your work.
Examiner trap
Examine the multiplexers Mux_A and Mux_B connected to the inputs of the ALU. Since each Mux independently selects between a register and an immediate value, list all possible input combinations to the ALU.
This ALU Design previous year question is Q27 of the GATE CSE 2025 Set 1 paper. Find more GATE CSE PYQs on ALU Design in Computer Organization and Architecture, or browse all GATE CSE PYQs.
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ALU Design has 4 GATE CSE PYQs across 4 papers from 2016 to 2025. This is the only 1-mark MSQ among them, and it is the only one in GATE CSE 2025 Set 1.
How GATE tests ALU DesignIndependent practice explanation verified by the GateAI team. GATE is conducted by the IITs; question text follows the official paper.