Computer Architecture Flashcards
What is the primary function of the CPU in a computer architecture?
To execute instructions and process data.
True or False: The ALU stands for Arithmetic Logic Unit.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ is responsible for managing the data flow between the CPU, memory, and input/output devices.
bus
What are the two main types of computer memory?
Volatile and Non-volatile memory.
Which type of memory is faster: RAM or hard drive?
RAM
What does the acronym ‘RAM’ stand for?
Random Access Memory
Multiple Choice: Which architecture is known for its simplicity and efficiency in instruction execution? A) CISC B) RISC C) SIMD
B) RISC
What is the purpose of cache memory in computer architecture?
To speed up data access by storing frequently used data and instructions.
True or False: A microprocessor is a complete computing system on a single chip.
True
What is pipelining in the context of CPU architecture?
A technique where multiple instruction phases are overlapped to improve performance.
Fill in the blank: The __________ is the part of the CPU that performs arithmetic and logical operations.
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
What does the term ‘bus width’ refer to?
The number of bits that can be transmitted simultaneously on a bus.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a type of storage device? A) SSD B) RAM C) CPU
C) CPU
What is the function of the control unit in a CPU?
To direct the operation of the processor and manage the execution of instructions.
True or False: Secondary storage is faster than primary storage.
False
What is the main advantage of using a RISC architecture?
It allows for a simpler instruction set, leading to faster execution.
Fill in the blank: The __________ instruction set architecture specifies the instructions that a CPU can execute.
ISA (Instruction Set Architecture)
What is the purpose of virtual memory?
To extend the available memory by using disk space as additional RAM.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of non-volatile memory? A) SRAM B) DRAM C) Flash memory
C) Flash memory
What does the term ‘throughput’ refer to in computer architecture?
The amount of data processed by a system in a given amount of time.
True or False: A 32-bit processor can handle more memory than a 64-bit processor.
False
What is the role of an operating system in computer architecture?
To manage hardware resources and provide services for application software.
Fill in the blank: The __________ is the part of the computer that stores data permanently.
hard drive
What does ‘endian-ness’ refer to in computer architecture?
The order in which bytes are arranged in memory.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a type of input device? A) Monitor B) Keyboard C) Printer
B) Keyboard
What is the function of a GPU in computer architecture?
To accelerate rendering of images and graphics processing.
