Nios® V Processor Software Developer Handbook

ID 743810
Date 1/27/2025
Public

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9.4.1. Direct or Vectored Mode

Both implementations serve the same purpose in servicing traps, but with different interrupt response time:

  • CLINT-Direct is non-vectored, requiring the processor to dispatch ISRs with a software routine.
  • CLINT-Vectored, by contrast, can be vectored. ISR dispatch is managed by hardware, eliminating the processing time required for ISR dispatch, and substantially reducing interrupt response time. This is achieved through a minor increase in logic utilization.

The CLINT-Vectored has no impact on software exception latency or response time.