Topic 6 Flashcards
What is primary memory in a computer?
Primary memory is where all processed data, instructions, and resulting data are stored. It is directly connected to the processor.
What is the difference between static RAM and dynamic RAM?
Static RAM holds data as long as power is supplied, while dynamic RAM leaks data over time and needs periodic refreshing.
What is cache memory used for?
Cache memory is used to store frequently used instructions and data to speed up processor performance.
What is the purpose of ROM in a computer?
ROM holds critical instructions like the BIOS for booting up a PC. It is non-volatile and cannot be altered during regular use.
Differentiate between direct and sequential access storage.
Direct access storage allows specific data to be retrieved without reading all preceding data, while sequential access storage requires reading through all previous data.
What is the fetch-decode-execute cycle?
The fetch-decode-execute cycle is the process by which the processor retrieves instructions, decodes them, and executes them.
How is processor speed measured?
Processor speed is measured in Hertz (Hz), and more recently in Gigahertz (GHz) for modern processors.
What is MIPS, and how does it relate to processor performance?
MIPS stands for Million Instructions Per Second, a rough measure of processor performance.
Define memory bandwidth and its significance.
Memory bandwidth is the rate at which data travels between memory and the processor, affecting overall CPU performance.
What is the maximum resolution in digital screens defined as?
Maximum resolution is defined as Width x Height, indicating the number of distinct pixels in the display.
Differentiate between HDD and SSD.
HDDs are cheaper but slower, while SSDs are faster and more durable but expensive.
What are the main features of a sound processor?
Sound processors convert analog sound to digital files and vice versa, and can process multiple audio channels.
What is a GPU and its primary use?
A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is designed for manipulating and processing graphics, especially in gaming and CGI.
How does network connectivity affect computer performance?
Network connectivity, such as wired or wireless NICs, affects the speed and reliability of data transfer.
Describe the role of a mainframe in modern computing.
Mainframes are used by large organizations for critical applications and data processing, such as in finance and defense.
What is a supercomputer primarily used for?
Supercomputers are used for tasks like weather forecasting, scientific research, and complex calculations.
What are the characteristics of modern servers?
Servers provide services to clients, such as hosting databases, files, or applications. They are designed for high reliability and performance.
What defines a Personal Computer (PC)?
A Personal Computer (PC) is a general-purpose computer designed for individual use, typically with a desktop or laptop form factor.
What are the benefits of using laptops over PCs?
Laptops offer portability, long battery life, and capabilities similar to desktop PCs, making them ideal for mobile use.
Describe the key features of tablets.
Tablets are mobile devices with touchscreens that serve as both input and output devices, and are typically equipped with sensors like GPS.
What is multitasking in operating systems?
Multitasking allows multiple tasks to share CPU resources efficiently, giving the illusion of parallel execution.
Explain the difference between multiprocessing and multithreading.
Multiprocessing refers to a system with multiple CPUs, while multithreading allows different parts of a program to execute concurrently.
What are the key limitations of system resources in computing?
Limitations of system resources include insufficient memory, processing power, or storage, leading to slower performance or errors.
How does rendering work in computer-generated imagery (CGI)?
Rendering in CGI is the process of generating images or videos from models, using complex mathematical equations.
What is the role of a multiprogramming OS?
A multiprogramming OS loads multiple programs in memory, maximizing CPU usage by switching between them when idle.
