M5.6a Flashcards
What does the CPU (microprocessor) do?
Performs all of the mathematical and logic functions by manipulating the data in the memory
What is ROM
- Read Only Memory
- Contains the main program telling the CPU what to do, when to do it and how to do it
What is RAM
- Random Access Memory
- Temporary data until the data is needed for processing.
What is the purpose of the input/output device?
It provides the interface between the CPU and the outside world
What is the purpose of the address bus
It specifies the memory location or I/O port involved
How many buses are there and what are they
3
- Data bus
- Control bus
- Address bus
What is the purpose of the Data bus
Used to carry the data associated with memory or I/O transfer
What is the purpose of the control bus
It is made up from various control lines generated by the CPU
What is hardware
The parts and devices used to process digital data
What is software
The programmes and instructions for the CPU
What is RAM also referred as
Volatile memory - unsaved data is lost at power off
What is ROM also referred to as
Non - volatile memory
Data and programming functions stored in the ROM are not lost at power off
What is PROM
Programmable Read Only Memory
What is the advantage of using EAROM over EPROM
Each individual part of the memory can be changed with ought erasing all of the data in the other elements
How does EPROM work
It works by erasing the existing program (by UV light) from the integrated circuit pack (IC). It is then reprogrammed with a series of 1s and 0s
When first manufactured what was important to remember about ROM
It is not usually changeable after manufacture due to a special masking technique adopted
What is a reference computer
A computer that may be used as a source of information/data.
- reference signals from this computer may be self contained
- it only provides outputs
What is IRS
Inertial Reference System ( A type of computer)
- using laser gyros and accelerometers
What’s the examples of IRS computers
- Autothrottle
- Flight Control Computers
- Pilots Horizontal Situation Indicators
- FMC ( Flight management computer)
How are computers more often classified as
Classified on their tasks rather than by analogue, digital or hybrid
What is an information computer
A computer that collects, processes and displays data
What are examples of information computers
- Maintenance computers
- EICAS ( Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System)
What are storage/monitor computers
Computers that retain information provided to them by other systems or computers.
They generally do little signal processing
What is an example of a monitor/storage computer
EECM Electronic Engine control monitor
What are controlling computers
Computers with a primary task of controlling something
What is an example of a controlling computer
FSEU Flap Slat Electronic Unit
Monitors and controls flap/slat positions
What is an interactive computer
A computer that can perform several different tasks depending on operator input
What is an example of an interactive computer
The FMC flight management computer
The flight crew can enter information via the CDU
What are the 3 main types of computers on aircraft
Analog
Digital
Hybrid
Many problems arose from improper handling of new technology LRUs. What was the uncerviability rate of the new technology found in the new test conditions as the old ones
It was three to four times higher
Why is a fully integrated circuit hard to inspect by maintenance shop personnel
The automatic testing equipment are often not able to discover the problem
