computer systems Flashcards
Whats the main function of a computer system?
To input data process it and create an output
What does CPU stand for?
Central Processing Unit
Describe the CPU
The CPU is the main component of a computer which processes program instructions and carries them out.
What are the three main components of the CPU?
The control unit, the logic and arithmetic unit and the immediate access unit.
What are the three main factors that affect the speed of the CPU?
The clock speed, cache and cores
How does the clock work?
With every tick one instruction is carried out.
What is the clock speed measured in?
Hertz
What does a core do?
Allows the computer to carry out more than one instruction at a time.
What does a cache do?
Stores the most commonly used instructions and data are stored so they can be processed quickly.
What keeps the CPU cool?
A heat sink
Whats an embedded system?
A small computer that carries out a specific function for a larger machine.
What is a general purpose computer?
A computer that can carry out a wide range of instructions.
