Intel 64 and IA-32 Architectures Software Developers Manual Volume 1, Basic Architecture

1-8 Vol. 1

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

1.3.6 Exceptions

An exception is an event that typically occurs when an instruction causes an error.

For example, an attempt to divide by zero generates an exception. However, some

exceptions, such as breakpoints, occur under other conditions. Some types of excep-

tions may provide error codes. An error code reports additional information about the

error. An example of the notation used to show an exception and error code is shown

below:

#PF(fault code)

This example refers to a page-fault exception under conditions where an error code

naming a type of fault is reported. Under some conditions, exceptions that produce

error codes may not be able to report an accurate code. In this case, the error code

is zero, as shown below for a general-protection exception:

#GP(0)

1.4 RELATED LITERATURE

Literature related to Intel 64 and IA-32 processors is listed on-line at:

http://developer.intel.com/products/processor/index.htm

Some of the documents listed at this web site can be viewed on-line; others can be

ordered. The literature available is listed by Intel processor and then by the following

literature types: applications notes, data sheets, manuals, papers, and specification

updates.