Smaller is Faster

Smaller pieces of hardware will generally be faster than larger pieces.

This simple principle is particularly applicable to memories built from the same technology for two reasons:

bullet In high-speed machines, signal propagation is a major cause of delay;

bullet In most technologies we can obtain smaller memories that are faster than larger memories. This is primarily because the designer can use more power per memory cell in a smaller design;

The important exception to the smaller_is_faster rule arises from differences in power consumption. Designs with higher power consumption will be faster and also usually larger. Thus, the smaller-is-faster rule applies only when power considerations are taken into account.