Internal Hardware Components Flashcards
What is the stored program concept?
Instructions are stored in (main) memory;
Instructions are fetched, (decoded) and executed (serially) by the processor;
Programs can be moved in and out of main memory;
What are the internal components of a CPU?
Processor, main memory, I/O controllers, and buses.
What are external components of a computer?
Peripherals such as keyboards, mice, printers, and disk drives.
What is the difference between main memory and secondary memory?
Main Memory: Volatile, holds current programs and data, faster.
Secondary Memory: Non-volatile, used for permanent storage, slower.
What is addressable memory?
Memory is divided into blocks with unique addresses for storing instructions and data.
What are the steps in the fetch-decode-execute cycle?
Contents of PC placed into MAR. The address sent along MAR along address bus to main memory. Instruction at that address found and sent along data bus to MBR. At same time PC increments by 1 so next instruction can be carried out.
MBR loads CIR with instruction to be excecuted.
Instruction decoded and executed.
What components are involved in the fetch-decode-execute cycle?
Program Counter (PC), Memory Address Register (MAR), Memory Buffer Register (MBR), Current Instruction Register (CIR), and buses.
What are the three types of buses and their functions?
Address Bus: Sends memory addresses to memory.
Data Bus: Transfers data between components by bidirectional due to constantly having to move between RAM AND CPU
Control Bus: Sends control and timing signals.
Why is bus width important?
Determines how much data can be transferred at once, affecting system performance.
What is the role of the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)?
Performs arithmetic and logical operations on data.
What does the Control Unit do?
Manages instruction execution, synchronizes processor components, and handles interrupts.
What is Harvard architecture?
A: A design with separate memory and buses for data and instructions, reducing bottlenecks.
What does the Program Counter (PC) store?
The address of the next instruction to fetch
What does the Memory Address Register (MAR) store?
The memory location to read or write data.
What is the Current Instruction Register (CIR)?
Stores the instruction currently being decoded or executed.
