1. The input signals to the encoder block in Figure are combined to generate the individual control signals Y in , PC OUT Add, End, and so on.
2. The output of the control unit is responsible for indicating the function that needs to be performed (like addition), selection of the storage units and for selection of data path/data route.
3. The control hardware shown in the detailed block diagram (Figure 5) can be viewed as a state machine that changes from one state to another in every clock cycle, depending on the contents of the instruction register, the condition codes, and the external inputs. The outputs of the state machine are the control signals.
4. The sequence of operations carried out by this machine is determined by the wiring of the logic elements, hence the name "hardwired."

The advantages of hardwired control units are as follows:

1. They operate at very high speeds making it crucial for real time and other applications where time is a major factor. Hardwired control units don’t need separate control memory for storage of control word for generation of control signals. They perform the same task using logical circuitry which is also the reason they are so fast.
2. Hardwired control units are known to be more power efficient than their counterparts making them an ideal choice for processors in mobile devices.
3. Hardwired control units are now widely employed in RISC processors which are known for their speed, reduced instruction set and support for limited addressing modes