Unit 2 Computer Systems - Computer Structure Flashcards
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What is a computer in its simplest form?
A digital machine that takes input, processes it, and outputs the results.
What is the role of an input device?
Converts real-world information into binary data.
What is the role of an output device?
Converts binary data into real-world information.
What is the ‘stored program concept’?
The computer’s memory holds a program (algorithm) that the processor follows, allowing the computer to perform different tasks by changing the program.
What is the processor’s primary function?
To manipulate binary data.
What is a transistor?
The smallest form of switching binary circuit.
What is clock speed, and what unit is used to measure it?
The speed at which a processor performs operations. Measured in Hertz (Hz) or Gigahertz (GHz).
What are the three main areas of a processor?
Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU), Control Unit, Registers
What is the function of the ALU?
Performs mathematical and logical operations (comparisons, arithmetic, logical operators).
What is the function of the Control Unit?
Coordinates all activities within the computer that require the processor’s time (fetching instructions/data, decoding instructions, executing instructions, managing clock signal, responding to peripherals).
What are registers used for?
Temporary storage locations within the processor for data needed for immediate operations (results of calculations, data, addresses).
What are the two main types of computer memory?
Read Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM).
What is the key difference between RAM and ROM?
ROM can only be read; RAM can be read from and written to. RAM requires power to retain its data.
How is memory organized?
Into individual locations, each with a unique binary address.
What are buses used for in a computer system?
Electrical pathways that connect the processor and memory.
What are the two main types of buses?
Address bus and data bus.
What is the function of the address bus?
Transfers the memory address being accessed from the processor to the memory.
What is the function of the data bus?
Transfers data between the processor and memory (reading or writing).
What is the third bus called and what does it do?
The control bus, used by the Control Unit to send signals to/from other parts of the computer.
What are high-level languages translated into before a processor can run them?
Machine code (binary instructions).
What are the two main types of translators for programming languages?
Interpreter and compiler.
How does an interpreter work?
Translates and executes high-level code one line at a time.
How does a compiler work?
Translates the entire high-level code (source code) into machine code all at once.
