Types of processor

Question 1

Define complex instruction set computers (CISC)

Answer 1

In these processors, there is a large instruction set. The aim is to try to accomplish tasks in as few lines of assembly code as possible.

These instructions are built onto the hardware.

Question 2

Define reduced instruction set computers (RISC)

Answer 2

In these processors, there is a small instruction set. Each instruction is approximately one line of machine code and takes one clock cycle.

Question 3

CISC vs RISC

Answer 3

RISC Processors
- The compiler has to do more work to translate high-level code into machine code.
- More RAM is required to store the code
- Pipelining is possible since each instruction takes one clock cycle

CISC Processor
- The compiler has less work to translate high-level code into machine code
- Less RAM is required since the code is shorter
- Many specialised instructions are made, even though only a few of them are used

Question 4

Define the term graphic Processing

Answer 4

Co-processor which has lots of independent processors working in parallel (single instructions multiple data - SIMD) makes it very efficient at tasks such as image processing and machine learning.

Specifically designed to perform the calculations associated with displaying graphics.

Question 5

Where is the graphics card located

Answer 5

Embedded within CPU

Can be placed on a graphics card with access to their own dedicated memory.

Question 6

Define a multi-core CPU

Answer 6

They have multiple interdependent cores that can complete instructions separately which results in higher performance.

With larger projects, this performs better than parallel systems.

Question 7

Define parallel systems

Answer 7

They can complete tasks using a single core, by using threading.

Eg. SIMD where the same operation is carried out on multiple pieces of data at one time (often carried out by GPUs)

MIMD different instructions are carried out concurrently on different pieces of data