CPU architechtures Flashcards
What do CPUs do?
Execute specific instructions from the set of instructions that they are given.
Whata re the two general forms of instruction that CPUs use?
RISC.
CISC.
What is RISC?
A fairly small set of instructions on a CPU.
RISC chips are designed to execute these instructions very rapidly.
Well known examples are PowerPC and ARM.
What is CISC?
A broad set of instructions on a CPU.
This results in fewer steps per operation.
Well known examples are Intel x86 and Motorola 68k.
What does RISC mean?
Reduced Instruction Set Computer.
What does CISC mean?
Complex Instruction Set Computer.
While the CPUs execute instructions, where are the remaining instrcutions and data stored?
They are stored in a special high speed memory called a cache.
What is Hyper-threading?
With this piece of technology, multiple threads of code are executed simultaneously in the CPU
Who implemented hyper-threading?
Intel.
What is hyper-threading?
A perfromance enhacning feature for intel CPUs made by the manufacturer.
What does Hpyer-threading seem like to an operating system?
It seems as if there are multiple CPUs at once.
What enhancing feature do AMD processors use?
Hypertransport. This is a high speed connection between the CPU and the Northbridge.
What is overclocking?
A technique used to make a processor work at a faster speed than the original specification.
Why is overclocking not recommended?
Because while it can improve performance, it can also damage the CPU.
What is CPU throttling?
It is when the CPU runs at less speed in order to conserve power or produce less heat.
