CHAPTER 1 Flashcards
What’s the key difference between Computer Architecture and Computer Organization?
Architecture defines what a computer does—attributes like the instruction set and data format that impact logical execution. Organization explains how it does it, focusing on implementation details like control signals and memory technology.
Example: Architecture might decide that a multiply instruction exists, while organization decides whether it uses a dedicated multiplier unit or the addition circuitry repeatedly.
What does Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) cover in Computer Architecture?
ISA defines the machine language instructions (opcodes), data types, registers, memory addressing modes, and effects of executed instructions. It’s the programmer’s view of the computer hardware.
Example: ISA defines how an ADD instruction updates registers and memory—like “ADD R1, R2” to add values from R1 and R2.
Define the Four Main Computer Functions and their roles.
1) Data Movement: Transfers data between devices (I/O).
2) Control: Manages operations of the system.
3) Data Storage: Holds data in memory for processing.
4) Data Processing: Performs computations.
Example: When loading a file, data moves from storage (Data Movement), the CPU retrieves and processes it (Data Processing), while memory holds data temporarily (Data Storage).
1) Data Movement: Transfers data between devices (I/O).
2) Control: Manages operations of the system.
3) Data Storage: Holds data in memory for processing.
4) Data Processing: Performs computations.
Example: When loading a file, data moves from storage (Data Movement), the CPU retrieves and processes it (Data Processing), while memory holds data temporarily (Data Storage).
What is the Hierarchical System in computer design?
It’s a system of nested layers where each layer addresses specific functions or structures without needing to manage lower layers directly.
Example: A CPU designer can focus on processor speed without altering the main memory.
What are the top-level components of a computer structure?
1) CPU: Executes instructions.
2) Main Memory: Stores programs and data.
3) I/O: Manages data exchange with external devices.
4) System Interconnection: Links the CPU, memory, and I/O.
Describe the main parts of the CPU and their functions.
1) Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs math and logic operations.
2) Registers: Small storage within the CPU.
3) Control Unit: Directs CPU operations.
Example: When processing an addition, the ALU computes, registers store intermediate results, and the control unit manages sequence.
What is a Multicore Processor, and why is it useful?
It’s a processor with multiple cores (each a mini CPU), allowing parallel processing for better performance.
Example: Each core can run different parts of a program or handle separate tasks, boosting speed.
What is Cache Memory, and how does it work?
Cache is a small, fast memory close to the CPU that stores frequently accessed data to reduce data retrieval times from main memory.
Example: Data repeatedly used in a calculation stays in the cache for quicker access.
How does the Binary Number System represent numbers differently from the Decimal System?
Binary uses only two digits, 0 and 1, with a base of 2 (e.g., 101 in binary equals 5 in decimal).
What is the Hexadecimal System, and why is it useful?
Hexadecimal uses 16 symbols (0-9, A-F) and groups binary in sets of four bits (nibbles). It’s easier for humans to read and convert from binary.
Example: 1010 in binary = A in hexadecimal.
What is a Processor, and how is it related to cores?
A processor, typically a physical chip, may contain one or multiple cores, each acting as an independent CPU. A multicore processor has several cores on a single chip.
Why might computer systems use the Hexadecimal System instead of binary?
Hexadecimal simplifies reading and grouping binary data, and most computer data is a multiple of 4 bits, matching hex notation.
