AMD AMD64 Technology System Programming Manual

About this manual

This manual provides a comprehensive reference for developers working with the AMD64 architecture. It covers the memory model, addressing, organization, segmentation, paging, and the various operating modes such as Long Mode, Compatibility Mode, and System Management Mode.

The document also describes system registers, interrupt handling, hardware multitasking, machine‑check architecture, and performance‑monitoring features, along with differences between x86 and AMD64 architectures and additional system‑programming facilities.

What's inside

• System‑Programming Overview
• Memory Model and Addressing
• Operating Modes (Long Mode, Compatibility Mode, Legacy Modes, SMM)
• System Registers
• Interrupts and Exceptions
• Hardware Multitasking and Machine Check
• Performance Monitoring
• x86 and AMD64 Architecture Differences

Specifications

Frequently asked questions

What operating modes are supported by AMD64?

AMD64 supports Long Mode, 64‑Bit Mode, Compatibility Mode, Legacy Modes, and System‑Management Mode (SMM).

What is the purpose of System‑Management Mode (SMM) in AMD64?

SMM provides a separate execution environment for low‑level system management functions, isolated from the operating system.