Topic 7.1 Internal Hardware Components Flashcards
What is the role of the Processor
Executes instructions in order to run applications.
What is the role of the Main Memory
Used to store program instructions and frequently used data.
Either RAM (Random Access) or ROM
(Read Only)
Main Memory is usually much faster to access than SSD so frequently used data is stored here to execute instructions quickly
What is a Bus
A series of parallel wires that connect internal components of a computer allowing them to work together to execute instructions
The number of wires a bus has is called its width. More wires = more bits transferred.
What is the role of the Address Bus
Used to transport memory addresses, which specify where data is being sent or retrieved from.
More width = More addresses available
What is the role of the Data Bus
Sends data and instructions to and from internal components.
More width = More data able to be transferred
What is the role of the control bus
Carries control signals that regulate the operation of the computer system
Also carries the clock signal.
What is the role of Input/Output (I/O) Controllers
Pieces of hardware that control the communication of data between the processor and peripherals (mice,keyboard)
What is the difference between Von Neumann and Harvard Architectures
In Harvard architechture, the processor has a seperate main memory location for instructions and for data.
In Von Neumann, instructions and data are stored together.
Harvard is faster since it can simultaneously access data and instructions.
Harvard is more efficient as it has less processor delays
Von Neumann is a lot cheaper
Where is Harvard architecture typically used
Bespoke systems
Real-time systems
Digital signal processors
Where is Von Neumann architecture typically used
Most electronic devices (tablets, phones, laptops)
What is addressable memory
The total amount of memory that a processor can access.
More address bus width = More addressable memory
What is the Stored Program Concept
Machine code instructions stored in main memory are fetched and executed serially by a processor that performs arithmetic and logical operations
