Structure Of Processor

Question 1

2 components of assemly code:

Answer 1

Operand: Contains the data
Opcode: Specifies the type of instruction.

Question 2

Explain pipelining

Answer 2

The FDE cycle is performed on 3 instruction simultaneously, holding data in a buffer in close proximity to the CPU until its required. While one instruction is being decoded, one can be fetched, and one can be executed.

Question 3

Factors affecting CPU performance

Answer 3

Clock speed: The time taken for one clock cycle to complete
Number of cores: A core is an independent processor capable of completing its own FDE cycle. Not all programs utilise multiple cores.
Amount of cache: Cache holds instructions that are likely to be used multiple times level 1 is fastest, then 2 and 3.

Question 4

Evaluate Von Neumann Architecture vs Harvard Architecture

Answer 4

Von Neumann Architecture:
Same processor for instructions and memory
+ Cheaper (CU is easier to design)
+ Less physical space required
Harvard Architecture:
- Quicker execution as instructions and data can be fetched in parallel
- Reduced resource conflicts: Distinct memory units and buses reduce the likelihood of pipeline stalls caused by resource conflicts.

Question 5

What is contemporary processing

Answer 5

Uses Harvard architecture only in the cache.