Simple radix 2 division and square root with skipping of some addition steps

Abstract

The authors present a novel algorithm for shared radix 2 division and square root whose main characteristic is the ability to avoid any addition when the digit 0 has been selected. The solution presented uses a redundant representation of the partial remainder, while keeping the advantages of classical solutions. It is shown how the next digit of the result can be selected even when the remainder is not updated; the tradeoff arising is also indicated. The average occurrences of 0 digit selections are also estimated in order to assess the benefits of the algorithm presented.<>