1.1Systems Architecture,Memory(Primary storage),Storage(secondary) Flashcards
What does the CPU do?
Processes and executes all instructions inside a computer.
What does clock speed affect?
How fast the CPU can execute instructions per second.
What is the impact of more CPU cores?
Allows more instructions to be executed in parallel, improving performance.
Why is cache size important?
Larger cache allows faster access to temporary data than RAM.
What are embedded systems?
Dedicated systems built into other devices, efficient and limited in function.
Name examples of embedded systems.
Washing machine, MP3 player, dishwasher.
What does the CU (Control Unit) do?
Directs the instructions within the processor.
What is the role of the ALU?
Performs arithmetic and logic operations.
What does the cache do?
Stores frequently accessed data for quick access.
What are registers?
Small, high-speed storage within the CPU.
What is the MAR?
Holds memory addresses for data to be used.
What is the MDR?
Holds actual data or instructions.
What is the Program Counter (PC)?
Holds the address of the next instruction.
What is the Accumulator?
Stores results from calculations in the ALU.
What is the CPU cycle?
Fetch, decode, execute.
What is RAM?
Volatile memory storing running applications.
What is ROM?
Non-volatile memory storing BIOS and boot instructions.
What is the difference between RAM and ROM?
RAM is volatile and upgradable; ROM is permanent and difficult to modify.
What is virtual memory?
Space on a hard disk used when RAM is full.
Why is virtual memory slower than RAM?
It uses HDD or SSD which are slower to access.
What is flash memory?
Non-volatile memory that can be electronically programmed and erased.
Give examples of flash memory.
USB drives, SD cards, SSDs.
What is secondary storage used for?
To store data and programs when power is off.
Name 3 factors when choosing secondary storage.
Capacity, speed, portability.
What is magnetic storage?
Data stored on magnetic disks, e.g., HDDs.
Advantages of magnetic storage?
Large capacity, cheap.
Disadvantages of magnetic storage?
Slow, easily damaged by drops.
What is optical storage?
Uses lasers to read/write data, e.g., CDs, DVDs.
Advantages of optical storage?
Cheap, portable, lightweight.
Disadvantages of optical storage?
Limited capacity, easily scratched.
What is solid state storage?
Uses electrical switches and no moving parts.
Advantages of SSD?
Fastest storage, durable, portable.
Disadvantages of SSD?
Most expensive per GB.
