Computing Hardware Flashcards
What is the purpose of the CPU?
To carryout all the processing in the computer
What is the function of the CPU as fetching and executing instructions stored in memory?
It fetches instructions from memory, it decodes the instruction to find out what processing to do and then executes the instruction
How does clock speed affect CPU performance?
The rate of fetch-execute cycles it allow more instructions to be executed a second
How does cache size affect CPU performance?
The CPU cannot access main memory as fast as the clock speed so it causes delays, but the cache memory (on the CPU itself) has similar speeds. Only if data is not in cache the CPU has to request data from the slower main memory
How does the number of cores affect CPU performance?
Means more data is processed simultaneously however it requires a complex OS
What are logic diagrams?
There are three logic gates: - Triangle is NOT - Semi circle is AND - Arrowhead is OR The results are represented in a truth table
What is the difference between RAM and ROM?
RAM is volatile, can be changed by the computer, stores programs and data being used, contains the OS and is large (8GB)
ROM is non-volatile, programmed during manufacture, cannot be changed, contains the boot program and is small (2MB)
How does RAM affect the performance of the computer?
It is much quicker than secondary storage so the data can be accessed quicker. If data is not in RAM it has to get it from the slower storage, so more RAM means less of that
What is the need for virtual memory?
It is part of secondary storage used as an extension to RAM when there is not enough RAM to hold data and programs required. Access to virtual memory is much slower
What is flash memory?
It is a type of storage without moving parts normally used in portable medium
How are changes in memory leading to new computer designs?
As more memory means better speeds it leads to better computers in smaller computer systems
What is the need for input and output devices?
To be able to enter data and be able to receive processed data
What are some examples of input devices?
keyboard, mouse, touch screen, microphone, camera, scanner, sensors
What are some examples of output devices?
screen, printer, speakers, actuators (create physical movements)
What are specialized input and output devices?
Eye-typer, braille keyboard, foot mouse, microphone (siri), speaker
