Elementary Function Computing Method for Floating-Point Unit

CORDIC is a simple algorithm that uses adders and shifters to compute elementary functions. CORDIC has wide applications because of its low resource consumption and simple hardware architecture. CORDIC traditionally dedicates calculation units only for integer or fixed-point number. Control scheme and structure are also complicated. In this paper, we propose a floating-point elementary function computing method combined with dedicated circuits and floating-point arithmetic components. The arithmetic components minimize hardware resource and enhance flexibility. Dedicated circuits improve computing speed and simplify hardware structure. The floating-point elementary function processor can be easily designed using the method described. And FPU can be modified to have the capability of elementary function computing. A double precision floating-point elementary function processor with a simple and flexible structure is designed. A single precision processor is implemented with an FPGA and synthesized with Synopsys Design Compiler. Synthesis and experimental results show that the processor can calculate all the common elementary functions. The processor has merits of simple structure and design, flexibility, and wide application range.