Do x86/x64 chips still use microprogramming?

Question

If I understand these two articles, the Intel architecture, at it's lowest level, has transitioned to using RISC instructions, instead of the the traditional CISC instruction set that Intel is known for: http://www.hardwaresecrets.com/article/235/4 http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/intel,264-6.html

If that's the case, then are x86/x64 chips still microprogrammed or does it use hardwired control like traditional RISC chips? I'm going to guess it's still microprogrammed but wanted to verify.

Answer 1

Microcode has been around for a long time, if that's what you're referring to. So I don't know what the HardwareSecrets article is on about, unless Intel is now building RISC processors on top of CISC processors.

Even the HardwareSecrets article calls them Micro-Instructions. Potato, potahto.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microcode