Week 1 - Computer Systems Introduction

Question 1

What is a basic definition of a computer system?

Answer 1

A combination of hardware, software and network components that work together to perform data processing, transfer and storage tasks.

Question 2

Explain Moore’s Law

Answer 2

Moore’s law predicts that the number of transistors in processors would roughly double every 12-18 months. History has shown it to be closer to 24 months

Question 3

Explain Amdahl’s Law

Answer 3

When you speed up one part of a system, the effect on the overall system performance depends on both how significant this part was and how much it sped up.

Question 4

What are the 6 types of computers?

Answer 4

1) Tablets/Mobile Phones
2) Embedded/Network Computers
3) Microcomputers (PCs)
4) Netword Accessible Storage/Servers
5) Mainframe
6) Supercomputer

Question 5

What are the 5 abstractions of a computer systems?

Answer 5

0) Logic gates
1) Components (CPU, RAM)
2) Circuit Boards (e.g. Motherboard)
3) Computer Systems (PCs)
4) Internet and Local Area Networks (LAN)

Question 6

What are the differences between mechanical, electromechanical and electronic computers?

Answer 6

Mechanical computers used mechanical parts like gears and wheels and often needed to be operated by hand.

Electromechanical computers used electronic components mixed with mechanical components. They used relays and vacuum tubes and were massive, often the size of a large room.

Electronic computers use integrated circuits (due to transistors), they are much more compact, energy efficient and powerful.