4.7 Fundamentals of Computer Organisation and Architecture Flashcards
Processor (CPU)
(Components)
(Capability)
Performs calculations
Runs the computer
ALU,CU
Capability:
- clock speed
- max num bits/instructions
- ability to process instructions at given time
Main Memory (RAM)
Primary Storage
Quick, direct access
Data only be changed if in main memory
Busses
Pass data around computer
Address = identify locations in memory
Data = pass data/instructions around computer
Control = used by CPU to comminucate with devices
Registers (Definition)
Stores a single item of data within the CPU
Memory Address Register (MAR) (Definition)
Stores the address of where to store/retrieve data
Memory Buffer Register (MBR) (Definition)
Stores the data that has been retrieved/is about to be stored
Current Instruction Register (CIR) (Definition)
Holds the current instructions after being decoded
Program Counter (PC) (Definition)
Holds the count of which instruction is next
Accumulator (Definition)
Holds the result of any calculations from the ALU or anything that is to be outputted/has been inputted
Input/Output Controllers
(what does it do)
(what does it deal with)
Processor <–> I/0 devices (info)
kernel is what passes the info
Error messages
Interrupts
The Stored Program Concept (Definition)
Machine code instructions stored in main memory are fetched and executed serially by a processor
Von Neumann Architecture
1 memory location
Easy access from ALU -> I/0 devices
Can code with complex/changing programs
General Purpose
Harvard Architecture
2 memory locations
Data, instructions
Can be loaded simultaneously
Reduce bottle necks
Different bus widths (less £)
Embedded systems
Processor Instruction Set (Definition)
Complete set of all instructions in machine code that can be recognized and executed by a CPU
Processor Instruction Set
Sets are processor specific
