Computer Architecture: CPU and RAM Overview

Study Notes

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The CPU is the brain of a computer, responsible for executing instructions.
It fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and then executes them.
Key components include the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), which performs calculations, and the control unit, which manages the flow of instructions.
CPUs are significantly affected by clock speed and number of cores.
Modern CPUs often include multiple cores to enhance their performance by allowing parallel processing of instructions.

Memory (RAM)

Random Access Memory (RAM) is used to store data and instructions that the CPU is currently using.
It is volatile, meaning that the data is lost when the power is turned off.
Types of RAM include DDR SDRAM, DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM. Differences are focused on speed and efficiency.
RAM speed is often measured in MHz. Higher numbers correlate to faster data transfer rates.
The amount of RAM impacts the number of programs or tasks that can be run simultaneously.

Motherboard

The motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer.
It connects all the other components of the system, including the CPU, memory, storage devices, and peripherals.
It provides the electrical pathways for data and power to flow within the system.
Chipset functionality is integral to the motherboard, controlling communication between components.
Different form factors of motherboards exist for various computer types.

Storage Devices

Storage devices store data persistently, such as hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs).
HDDs use spinning platters and read/write heads.
SSDs use flash memory to store data, making them faster and more durable than HDDs.
Storage capacity is often measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB).
The speed of storage devices impacts the overall performance of the system.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

The GPU is a specialized processor that handles graphical processing.
Its primary role is rendering images and video.
GPUs have cores that enable parallel processing, which is ideal for complex graphics.
Graphics cards are expansion cards that connect to the motherboard.
The performance of a GPU is measured in terms of processing power, measured by clock speed and number of cores.

Input/Output Devices

Input devices allow users to provide input to the computer, such as keyboards, mice, and touchscreens.
Output devices display information to the user, such as monitors, printers, and speakers.
The quality of these devices significantly impacts the user's interaction with the computer.

Expansion Cards

Expansion cards enhance the functionality of a computer system by adding specialized capabilities.
Examples include sound cards (for audio), network cards (for internet connectivity), and capture cards (for video recording or input).
The capabilities of expansion cards are very varied and cover a wide range of functionalities.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

The PSU provides power to all the components in the computer.
It converts AC power from the wall outlet into DC power.
Power ratings are critical, as an insufficient PSU can cause instability or damage to components.
Different ratings may exist for different wattage use cases.
The PSU is an essential aspect of hardware design.

Peripheral Devices

Peripheral devices are external devices that connect to a computer.
Examples include printers, scanners, and external hard drives.
The variety across different types of peripherals is vast.
The performance and functionality of peripherals can significantly affect the user experience.

Cooling Systems

Cooling systems, such as fans and heatsinks, help to keep computer components from overheating.
Overheating can damage components and decrease performance.
Thermal paste is a key component in heat management.
Proper cooling is critical to reliable, long-term operation of a computer.

Buses

Buses are the pathways that allow data to travel between different components of a computer.
They are electrical circuits connecting these various components.
The speed and capacity of buses significantly affect the overall performance of a computer.
Buses come in different types and forms.

Description

This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and Random Access Memory (RAM) in computer architecture. Learn how the CPU processes instructions and the role of RAM in data storage and performance. Assess your knowledge on components, types, and performance factors that influence modern computing.