5.6 Flashcards
What does CPU stand for?
Central Processing Unit
What is the job of a microprocessor (CPU)
Performs all mathematical and logic functions of manipulation data in memory. Dictated by programming to arrive at destination.
What does ROM stand for?
Read Only Memory
What is the purpose of ROM?
Contains the main programme which instructs the CPU exactly what to do.
What I does RAM do?
Used as a temporary storage until data is needed for processing
What does RAM stand for?
Random Access Memory
What does I/O stand for?
Input/ Output Device
What does am I/O do?
Provides and interface between the microprocessor and the outside world, whether digital display, teletype, CRT or various other devices.
What are the three types of buses and what do they do?
Data bus - Used to carry the data associated with a memory or input/ output transfer
Address Bus - used to specify the memory location or input/ output port involved in transfer
Control Bus - made up of various control lines generated by the CPU
What are the two types of Memory?
- Random access memory (RAM)
- Read Only Memory (ROM)
Which type of memory is volatile?
RAM because unsaved data stored in the RAM is lost at power off
What is RAM used for??
Used to store data which changes during the operation of the computer, such as results of calculations.
What is ROM used for?
Used to store programme steps and values, where memory values do not change e.g a dedicated system
Can contents of a ROM change after manufacturer?
No, due to the special masking technique adopted when programming the ROM
Why where PROMS’s invented?
To meet the needs of a user who may wish to do his own full programming or alter existing programmes.
What is normally used to write a programme into a PROM?
A special PROM programmer operating under computer control
What are the two other categories of PROM?
Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM)
Electrically Alterable Read Only Memory (EAROM)
What does EPROM stand for?
Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
How is EPROM altered?
Exposing to ultra-violet light through a window in the cover.
How is EAROM more advantageous than EPROM?
Each individual element can be changed without erasing all the data in other elements
Define Hardware
All parts and devices that are used to process digital data.
Define Software
Refers to all the programmes and instructions for the CPU
What can computers be classed by hardware?
Analogue, Digital or Hybrid
What are computers often classified as?
Tasks or application
What is a reference computer?
Used as a source of information or data. Signals from thus computer may be self-contained and it only provides outputs
E.G - Inertial Reference System (IRS)
What is an informational, computer?
Collects data from various places, processes it, and formats it for display. Main task is to collect data and display it in a central place.
E.G - Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System (EICAS)
What are parameters set and monitored engine thrust displayed on?
CRT - Cathode Ray Tube
What computer would Maintenance personnel use to get maintenance information?
Informational Computers
What do storage/monitor computers do?
Retains information provided to the by other systems and computers. Information stored can be used by other computers
E.G - Electronic Engine Control Monitor (EECM)
What do controlling computers do?
Primary task of controlling something such as FSEU (Flap/ Slat Electronic Unit) which provides a means of monitoring the flap level position.
What is the largest category of computer?
Controlling Computer
What is an Interactive Computer?
Perform several different tasks depending on operators inputs. Display information to operator and then manipulate it depending on interaction
E.G Flight Management Computer (FMC)
