Exception synchronization on x86

[Douglas Priest]

Sections 6.4.1.6-6.4.1.8 of the Pentium Processor User's Manual, Vol-
ume 3, briefly describe the need for a compiler to issue floating point
instructions in the correct sequence relative to other instructions and
to insert fwait instructions as need be to ensure that floating point
exceptions are properly synchronized (i.e., recoverable).  They also
state that the Intel compilers perform correct synchronization.

I would be grateful if someone can refer me to a description of the
algorithm Intel's compilers use to determine the correct sequencing
of floating point and non-floating point instructions and the loca-
tions at which fwait instructions must be issued.

Douglas M. Priest
SunSoft Floating Point Group
Sun Microsystems, Inc.
(but only speaking for myself)