I have multiple recipes stored as CASE structures in structured text and I am aiming to maintain a clean and efficient codebase. In terms of computation time and program size, I am comparing two options: y = x * 3 or y = x + x + x. While the processor may handle multiplication as multiple additions, I am curious to hear insights from those with a deeper understanding. To optimize speed, I have already defined common multiples outside of the Case structure for easy reference without the need for repeated computation in each recipe. As I evaluate all recipes for the best fit, my goal is to ensure a swift search process.
It would be uncommon for the calculation x*n to be slower than adding x multiple times, especially for values of n greater than 2. When searching through a large database of recipes, a CASE statement is likely to be less efficient than a binary search, which in turn may be slower than directly accessing an array (if feasible).
When choosing an approach, it is crucial to prioritize maintainability and readability in your code. While efficiency is important, ensuring that your code is easily understood and maintainable is key. It's better to opt for readability, even if it means sacrificing some speed.
Performing basic arithmetic calculations usually does not pose any time constraints. However, significant disparities may arise when dealing with exponential operations. For instance, multiplying a number by itself three times (x * x * x) will typically be more efficient than raising it to the power of three (x^3). This performance discrepancy was especially noticeable on older CPUs. Cheers, (8{)} (.) (Yosi)
For users of Compactlogix 5380, the following example showcases the efficiency of different instructions in terms of time taken. When comparing the operations of adding vs. multiplying, it is found that multiplying REAL values is more efficient, with a time of 0.084 microseconds. On the other hand, when dealing with DINT values, adding proves to be the faster option at 0.013 microseconds. This efficiency comparison holds true until the threshold where y equals x multiplied by 15. Remember to refer to the reference document for more details: https://literature.rockwellautomation.com/idc/groups/literature/documents/rm/logix-rm002_-en-p.pdf.
I appreciate you providing the document - it's precisely the literature I had been searching for.
Both your solutions are practical, but in terms of optimizing computation time, multiplication is generally faster on modern processors as they are designed to perform these operations efficiently. Therefore, y = x * 3 would typically be quicker than y = x + x + x. However, with the speed of contemporary processors, the difference in computational time would be minimal and probably imperceptible in most applications. There could be circumstances where additions may still prove faster, like in embedded systems where hardware isn't optimized for multiplication. With clean code being your goal, though, using multiplication could provide a more readable solution, which is just as important for long-term maintenance and usability by others.
While on surface level the two options might seem different, most modern compilers are smart enough to identify that 'x * 3' and 'x + x + x' are identical, thus optimization won't be significantly affected by this choice. However, readability and maintainability should be taken into account. The multiplication option is more succinct, faster to write, and less prone to typographical errors. So with this in mind, 'y = x * 3' is generally the preferred choice among programmers.
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Answer: Answer: While the processor may handle multiplication as multiple additions, there can be differences in computation time and program size. Multiplication may be more efficient for the processor, but there could be benefits to using additions in terms of code readability and maintenance.
Answer: Answer: Defining common multiples outside the Case structure can optimize speed by eliminating the need for repeated computation in each recipe. This can streamline the search process and improve overall efficiency in recipe calculations.
Answer: Answer: When optimizing for efficiency in Studio 5000 Structure Text, factors such as computation time, program size, code readability, and maintenance should all be taken into account. Experimenting with different calculation methods and structuring code for easy reference can help achieve a balance between speed and maintainability.
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