Computation of logarithmic and exponential functions

A method, comprising:

• loading, using a processor, a first operand into a first register;
• selecting, using the processor, a second operand from one of an iteration-specific coefficient or a constant input value based on a least significant bit of a third operand for which an exponential function is being performed;
• computing, using the processor, a product of said first and second operands, wherein said product is at least part of a result of said exponential function performed on said third operand;
• and
• replacing, using the processor, said first operand with said product in preparation for a next iteration of said method.

A system comprising:

• at least one processor;
• and
• a computational apparatus coupled to said at least one processor, said computational apparatus including:
• first and second registers;
• selection logic coupled to said second register and a constant input value, wherein said selection logic is configured to select one of a coefficient or said constant input value to provide as an output in response to a select input, wherein the select input includes a least significant bit of an operand for which an exponential function is being performed by said computational apparatus;
• and
• a multiplier coupled to said first register and to said output of said selection logic to provide a product of contents of said first register and said output of said selection logic, wherein said product is at least part of a result of said exponential function performed on said operand, and
• wherein said multiplier is further coupled to said first register to provide said product as an input to said first register.