4.7.1 Computer Architecture and Organisation Flashcards
Define Processor (CPU).
- Executes program instructions.
- Contains control unit, arithmetic logic unit and registers.
Define Main Memory.
Includes RAM and ROM.
Stores program instructions and frequently used data.
Faster than secondary storage for frequently accessed data.
Define RAM.
RAM is Random Access Memory.
- volatile (does not store without power)
- temporary storage for active processes.
Define ROM.
ROM is Read Only Memory.
- non-volatile
- stores essential boot-up instructions
Define Addressable Memory.
The concept that each memory location is identified with a discreet unique address. And that its contents can be accessed by its address.
Define Buses.
A set of parallel connections that allow internal components to communicate and exchange data.
What does the Address Bus do?
The address bus transports memory addresses, determining where data is read/written.
It is uni-directional, from the processor to main memory or I/O controllers.
What does the Data Bus do?
The data bus transfers data and instructions to and from different components of the system.
It is bi-directional between the processor, main memory and the I/O controllers.
What does the Control Bus do?
The control bus sends control signals that regulate the operation of computer system, and also carries the computer’s clock signal.
It is bi-directional between processor, main memory and I/O controllers.
Define I/O controllers.
Facilitates the communication between the processor and external devices like keyboards and monitors.
All peripheral (external) devices are connected to the processor through I/O controllers, allowing communication of data between processor and external hardware devices.
Each device has its own I/O controller.
Define Von Neumann Architecture.
Both the instructions and data are stored in main memory.
Uses the same address bus and data bus for transferring data/instructions.
Suitable for general purpose computers, allows users to switch between tasks.
Define Harvard Architecture.
Separate memory for instructions and data.
Separate data and address buses used by the processor.
Suitable for embedded systems for performance optimization.
Compare Von Neumann Architecture with Harvard Architecture.
Memory and buses:
- Von Neumann: One main memory for both instructions and data. (could be exploited by hackers)
- Harvard: Separate memory and buses for instructions and data. (More secure, data and instructions can be accessed simultaneously -> higher processor performance.)
Define Pipelining.
A method that breaks the execution of instructions into separate steps carried out by different processor units in sequence, much like an assembly line.
This allows for multiple instructions to be in various stages of execution simultaneously, optimizing CPU time and significantly boosting instruction throughout.
