8051 internal memory map understanding Are special function registers (SFRs) located in the next 128 addresses immediately above the lower 128 bytes of internal RAM?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: True

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The 8051 has a distinctive internal address map: lower internal RAM and upper special function registers share the same 8-bit address space but map to different functional regions. This question probes recognition of the address ranges involved.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Lower internal RAM occupies addresses 0x00–0x7F (128 bytes).
  • Special function registers are mapped at 0x80–0xFF.
  • Direct addressing to 0x80–0xFF targets SFRs, not general RAM.


Concept / Approach:
Conceptually, SFRs reside in the “next 128 locations” above the lower RAM block in the direct address space: 0x80–0xFF. These are not general-purpose RAM bytes; they control peripherals, ports, timers, serial, and CPU status. Indirect addressing cannot access SFRs; it wraps within lower RAM (and upper RAM on 8052), reinforcing the separation.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Identify lower RAM: 128 bytes at 0x00–0x7F.2) Identify SFR region: 128 byte-wide address map at 0x80–0xFF.3) Direct addressing to 0x80–0xFF accesses SFRs (for example, P0 = 0x80, TMOD = 0x89).4) Conclude that SFRs lie in the next 128 addresses above lower RAM in direct address terms.


Verification / Alternative check:
Check any 8051 memory map: SFRs occupy addresses 0x80–0xFF.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • False: Disagrees with the standard 8051 map.
  • Only on 8052: 8052 adds upper 128 RAM via indirect addressing, but SFR map remains 0x80–0xFF on both.
  • Only when EA is HIGH: EA relates to code memory selection, not SFR mapping.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming SFRs are normal RAM, or trying to access SFRs with indirect addressing.


Final Answer:
True

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