Explain with the aid of diagrams, the main differences between Von Neumann and Harvard microcontroller architectures.

Question 1

How does a Harvard architecture work?

Is this a sequential or parallel architecture?

Answer 1

• Computer design approach.
• Separates memory storage and processing
  pathways for instructions and data.
• Enables simultaneous access to
  instructions and data.
• Enhances performance and efficiency.
• Commonly utilized in microcontrollers and
  digital signal processors (DSPs).

This is a parallel architecture.

Question 2

How is the Harvard architecture shown in a block diagram?

Answer 2

Instruction:
- From Program/Code memory to
Microprocessor.

Data transfer:
- From Microprocessor to registers such as
I/O ports and RAM

Register Address:
- From registers such as I/O ports and RAM
back to Microprocessor

Instruction Address:
- From Microprocessor back to
Program/Code Memory

Question 3

What is Von Neumann architecture?

Is this a sequential or parallel architecture?

Answer 3

• Instructions and data share the same
  memory space.
• Utilizes a single pathway for processing
  and data transfer.
• Common in traditional computers.
• Offers versatility in programming.
• Potential for performance bottlenecks due
  to shared resource usage.

This is a sequential architecture.

Question 4

How is the Von Neumann architecture shown in a block diagram?

Answer 4

An input is inputted in the accumulator/Arithmetic and Logic Unit. The accumulator is connected to both the control unit and RAM+Program Code and Data. When connected to the control unit and RAM+Program Code and Data the accumulator’s terminals are 2-way for both. The control unit is also 2-way with the RAM+Program Code. The accumulator has an output connected to it.