1.2 computer components Flashcards
what is the CPU?
it manages all the hardware activities required to receive instructions and data, it actions them using the input data and outputs the results.
it also manages storage devices, both internal and external to the computer, and records where all programs and instructions are located for future retrieval
history of CPU
1st CPUs had a single core , so they could only carry out one instruction at a time.
The next stage was the ability to begin a second instruction before the 1st was completed, taking advantage of the time that the CPU was waiting for a request to be complete.
Now CPUs have 2 or more independent cores integrated on a single chip CPU or linked together in a package.
These developments have resulted in a computer being able to run multiple packages
purpose of control unit ( component of CPU)
ensures that the instructions required to operate the computer are retrieved and interpreted in the correct sequence.
This means that instructions and data are transferred from the input or storage devices and placed in the temporary storage of registers in the CPU until the necessary data is ready to be processed in the arithmetic logic unit and results stored in the right place
purpose of arithmetic logic unit ( component of CPU)
here the computer undertakes the mathematical or logical operations required to complete the instruction.
The data is placed in a special register called the accumulator and arithmetic and logical operations such as “and” , “or” , “not” are carried out
motherboard
each motherboard is designed for a specific CPU
This is the main printed circuit of a personal computer. Components such as the CPU are directly connected to it via sockets, such as hard drives or network cards use expansion slots or ports.
Its printed circuits form the data or communications highway for the computer, ensuring that data and instructions can be transferred or stored where they are needed and located when required
primary storage device - registers purpose
its small, fast and is used chiefly by the CPU to store:
- data which is to be processed within the ALU
- the instructions that inform the CPU as to what is to happen to the data
- a 3rd type of info which is that of the operating system which oversees the basic tasks required by a particular computer
primary storage device - random access memory purpose (RAM)
fast but slower than those within the CPU and larger in size
It holds almost all other data and instructions that the computer may need for any programs open on the computer
As the programs requirements change or programs are replaced by others, so the memory is overwritten with the new data and instructions
primary storage device - read only memory (ROM) purpose
This contains permanent instructions such as the Basic Input/Output program (BIOS), which, when you switch on the computer, checks that all the expected devices are in place, checks that they are working and loads the operating system into the computer.
The BIOS is an integral part of the computer when it is built, unlike operating systems, which can be added later
what is flash drives - storage device
USB flash drives are often used for storage, data back-up and transferring of computer files.
flash drives strengths
- smaller + faster
- have larger capacity
- more durable to lack of moving parts
flash drives weaknesses
- risk of loosing
- no broadcasting feature only individual messages can be sent in between them
- some can be produced at low quality
what is cloud storage - storage device
Cloud storage uses data centers with massive computer servers that physically store the data and make it available online to users via web
Users can remotely upload their content, store them and retrieve the data as and when required.
cloud storage strengths
- cloud storage is much cheaper
- cloud storage gives you access to your files from anywhere that has an internet connection.
- Cloud storage providers add additional layers of security to their services
cloud storage weaknesses
- Cloud based storage is dependent on having an internet connection
- There are additional costs for uploading and downloading files from the cloud.
- when using cloud storage you don’t know who’s keeping it safe so theres a lack of privacy
what is solid state discs - storage device
A solid-state drive (SSD) is a solid-state storage device that uses integrated circuit assemblies to store data persistently, typically using flash memory, and functioning as secondary storage in the hierarchy of computer storage.
