Computer Architecture Overview

Computer Architecture

Definition: Computer architecture refers to the design and organization of a computer's components and systems, including hardware and software interaction.
Components of Computer Architecture:
- Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer, responsible for executing instructions.
  - Control Unit (CU): Directs the operation of the processor and coordinates instructions.
  - Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
  - Registers: Small storage locations within the CPU for fast data access.
- Memory:
  - Primary Memory (RAM): Temporary storage for active data and programs; volatile.
  - Secondary Memory: Permanent storage like hard drives, SSDs; non-volatile.
- Input/Output (I/O) Devices: Interfaces for user interaction and data input/output (e.g., keyboard, mouse, printer).
Architecture Types:
- Von Neumann Architecture: A single memory space for both instructions and data.
  - Characteristics: Sequential instruction processing, stored-program concept.
- Harvard Architecture: Separate storage for instructions and data.
  - Characteristics: Allows simultaneous access, improving performance for certain applications.
Performance Metrics:
- Clock Speed: Measured in Hertz (Hz); higher speed means faster execution.
- Instruction Set Architecture (ISA): Defines the set of instructions the CPU can execute.
- Throughput: The amount of processing a system can handle in a given time.
- Latency: The delay before a transfer of data begins following an instruction.
Types of Processors:
- Single-Core: One core for processing, limited multitasking ability.
- Multi-Core: Multiple cores for concurrent processing; increases performance.
- Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): Specialized for handling graphics and parallel processing tasks.
Memory Hierarchy:
- Registers: Fastest, smallest storage used by the CPU.
- Cache Memory: Faster than RAM, used to store frequently accessed data.
- Main Memory (RAM): Larger, slower than cache; used for active tasks.
- Secondary Storage: Slower, larger storage for data not in use (e.g., HDD, SSD).
Bus Systems:
- Data Bus: Transfers data between components.
- Address Bus: Carries addresses from the CPU to other components.
- Control Bus: Carries control signals from the CPU to various components.
Parallel and Distributed Computing:
- Parallel Computing: Multiple processors execute tasks simultaneously to increase efficiency.
- Distributed Computing: Multiple interconnected computers work together on a common problem.
Trends in Computer Architecture:
- Energy Efficiency: Designing architectures that minimize power consumption.
- Integration: Combining multiple functions (e.g., processors, memory) into single chips.
- Cloud Computing: Utilization of remote servers for processing and storage.

This concise overview of computer architecture covers fundamental concepts and components essential for understanding how computers are designed and function.

Definition

Computer architecture encompasses the design and organization of both hardware and software, focusing on their interaction.

Components of Computer Architecture

Central Processing Unit (CPU): Executes instructions and is considered the brain of the computer.
Control Unit (CU): Manages processor operations and coordinates instruction flow.
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Responsible for performing all arithmetic and logical operations.
Registers: Small, fast storage locations within the CPU for immediate data access.
Memory Types:
- Primary Memory (RAM): Volatile and used for temporary storage of active data and running programs.
- Secondary Memory: Non-volatile, permanent storage like hard drives and SSDs.
Input/Output (I/O) Devices: Tools for user interaction and data transfer, including keyboards, mice, and printers.

Architecture Types

Von Neumann Architecture: Employs a single memory space for both data and instructions, facilitating a sequential instruction process.
Harvard Architecture: Features separate storage for instructions and data, allowing for simultaneous data access and improved performance.

Performance Metrics

Clock Speed: Indicates execution speed measured in Hertz (Hz); higher speeds result in faster processing.
Instruction Set Architecture (ISA): Specifies the instructions a CPU can execute.
Throughput: Reflects the volume of data processed within a specific time frame.
Latency: Denotes the delay before data transfer initiates after an instruction is given.

Types of Processors

Single-Core Processors: Limited to one processing core, reducing multitasking efficiency.
Multi-Core Processors: Equipped with multiple cores to enable concurrent processing, enhancing overall performance.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): Specialized for handling complex graphics operations and parallel processing tasks.

Memory Hierarchy

Registers: Provide the fastest and smallest type of storage for the CPU.
Cache Memory: Faster than RAM, used for frequently accessed data to speed up processes.
Main Memory (RAM): Larger and slower than cache, serves as the primary workspace for active tasks.
Secondary Storage: Offers slower but higher capacity storage for inactive or less-used data (e.g., HDDs, SSDs).

Bus Systems

Data Bus: Facilitates the transfer of data between computer components.
Address Bus: Transfers address information from the CPU to other components.
Control Bus: Sends control signals from the CPU to different parts of the system.

Parallel and Distributed Computing

Parallel Computing: Involves multiple processors executing tasks simultaneously, promoting efficiency.
Distributed Computing: Engages multiple interconnected systems working collaboratively on a shared problem.

Trends in Computer Architecture

Energy Efficiency: A focus on creating architectures that reduce power consumption.
Integration: Combines multiple functions, such as processors and memory, onto singular chips.
Cloud Computing: Utilizes remote servers for data processing and storage capabilities.