1.1 Flashcards

1
Q

What is the primary function of the Control Unit in a CPU?

A

To coordinate all activities taking place inside the CPU

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2
Q

List the functions of the Control Unit.

A
  • Controls the execution of instructions in the correct sequence
  • Decodes instructions
  • Regulates and controls processor timing using regular pulses from the system clock
  • Sends and receives control signals to and from other devices within the computer
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3
Q

What does ALU stand for?

A

Arithmetic and Logic Unit

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4
Q

What are the three types of operations performed by the ALU?

A
  • Logical Operations
  • Shift Operations
  • Arithmetic Operations
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5
Q

What types of logical operations does the ALU perform?

A
  • AND
  • OR
  • NOT
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6
Q

What are shift operations in the context of the ALU?

A

The bits in a computer word can be shifted left or right by a certain number of places

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7
Q

List the arithmetic operations carried out by the ALU.

A
  • Addition
  • Subtraction
  • Multiplication
  • Division
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8
Q

What is a register in a CPU?

A

A special very fast memory location used in the execution of instructions

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9
Q

What is the Memory Address Register (MAR)?

A

Holds the address of the instruction or piece of data to be fetched or stored

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10
Q

What does the Memory Data Register (MDR) do?

A

Holds data or a program instruction temporarily when fetched from or sent to memory

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11
Q

What is the function of the Program Counter (PC)?

A

Holds the memory address of the next instruction to be processed

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12
Q

What is the role of the Accumulator (ACC) in a CPU?

A

Stores results of operations carried out in the ALU temporarily

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13
Q

True or False: Most processors have a single accumulator for temporary storage.

A

False

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14
Q

Fill in the blank: A CPU has a number of ________ registers.

A

special-purpose

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15
Q

What are some examples of computer systems?

A

Examples include mobile phones, cash machines, supermarket tills, and engine management systems in cars.

Computer systems are integrated into various everyday devices.

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16
Q

What is the basic model of a computer system composed of?

A

The basic model includes:
* CPU (processor)
* Input devices
* Output devices
* Memory (primary storage)
* Secondary storage

These components work together to process data and generate output.

17
Q

What is the function of the CPU in a computer system?

A

The CPU (processor) processes input data and executes instructions.

It is the central component that dictates the computer’s performance.

18
Q

What role do input devices play in a computer system?

A

Input devices convert real-world data into a form that can be stored on the computer.

Examples include keyboards, mice, and sensors.

19
Q

Name three examples of input devices.

A

Examples of input devices include:
* Mouse
* Keyboard
* Temperature sensor (thermistor)

Input devices gather data from the environment for processing.

20
Q

What type of data do output devices generate?

A

Output devices generate data that is presented to the user or performs actions based on processed data.

Examples include screens, actuators, and speakers.

21
Q

What is the purpose of memory (primary storage) in a computer system?

A

Memory holds instructions currently being executed and data that is being used.

It is essential for the temporary storage of operational data.

22
Q

What is secondary storage used for in a computer system?

A

Secondary storage is used to hold large amounts of data, including databases, text documents, programs, music files, and photographs.

It allows for long-term data retention.

23
Q

Fill in the blank: All computer systems must have a __________.

A

central processing unit (CPU)

This is a fundamental requirement for computer operation.

24
Q

True or False: A computer system can function without secondary storage.

A

True

While secondary storage is useful, it is not strictly necessary for a computer system to operate.

25
What is the main function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?
The CPU executes programs and manages the rest of the hardware. ## Footnote The CPU is often referred to as the brain of the computer.
26
What is cache memory?
Cache is very fast memory used to temporarily hold data or instructions likely needed again by the processor. ## Footnote Cache memory is located close to the CPU.
27
What is the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle?
For 4 marks: An instruction is fetched from memory The instruction is then decoded The decoded instruction is now executed **so the CPU runs continuously** This process is repeated The Program Counter is incremented It is the process where the processor fetches an instruction, decodes it, and then executes it. ## Footnote This cycle is critical for running programs on a computer.
28
What are the three main components of the processor?
The Control Unit (CU), the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), and registers. ## Footnote Each component has a specific function in processing data.
29
True or False: The CPU executes multiple instructions at the same time.
False. The processor executes one instruction at a time.
30
Fill in the blank: The CPU contains _______ memory and cache memory.
main
31
What happens when a program is to be run on a computer?
It first has to be loaded into main memory. ## Footnote This allows the processor to access and execute the program.
32
What is the role of the Control Unit (CU) in the CPU?
The CU manages the execution of instructions and coordinates the activities of the CPU. ## Footnote It directs the flow of data within the CPU.
33
What does the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) do?
The ALU performs arithmetic and logical operations. ## Footnote It is essential for executing calculations and comparisons.
34
What is the significance of the start address in the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle?
It indicates where the program is held in main memory. ## Footnote The processor uses this address to begin fetching instructions.