Computer Architecture vs Organization
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Questions and Answers

What is a key factor in determining whether a special multiply unit is used or the add unit is reused?

  • The relative speed of the add unit
  • The anticipated frequency of use of the multiply instruction (correct)
  • The physical size of the special multiply unit
  • The cost of the system
  • What is the primary reason for the distinction between architecture and organization?

  • To categorize embedded systems
  • To aid in understanding historical computer models
  • To distinguish between system models with different price and performance characteristics (correct)
  • To describe the evolution of computer technology
  • What was the result of IBM introducing many new models with improved technology?

  • The company lost market share
  • The System/370 architecture became obsolete
  • Customers could upgrade to faster models without changing software (correct)
  • Customers had to abandon their existing software investments
  • Why is the relationship between architecture and organization close in microcomputers?

    <p>Changes in technology influence organization and architecture</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the purpose of the System/370 architecture?

    <p>To create a family of models with the same architecture</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do the Learning Objectives of the chapter include?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference between computer architecture and computer organization?

    <p>Computer architecture refers to the programmer's view, while computer organization refers to the hardware realization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) define?

    <p>The algorithm for controlling instruction execution, instruction formats, and registers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of an architectural attribute?

    <p>The number of bits used to represent various data types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of an organizational attribute?

    <p>The type of memory technology used.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the decision to include a multiply instruction an architectural design issue?

    <p>Because it affects the programmer's view of the computer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference between an ISA and computer architecture?

    <p>An ISA is a subset of computer architecture.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Organizational Decisions in Computing

    • Implementation of multiply instructions can be done by a special multiply unit or via repeated use of an add unit.
    • Decisions depend on frequency of multiply instruction use, speed of implementation, and cost/size of the special unit.

    Architecture vs. Organization

    • Key distinction exists between computer architecture and organization.
    • Computer manufacturers may produce models with the same architecture but varying organizational aspects, leading to differences in performance and price.
    • Technology advancements can change organization while maintaining the same architecture over time.

    IBM System/370 Architecture

    • Introduced in 1970, exemplifies the long-lasting nature of computer architecture.
    • Offers model variations allowing customers to choose based on their needs—cheaper models for modest users and faster models for higher demand.
    • Customers can upgrade hardware without losing compatibility with previously developed software.
    • System/370 architecture has evolved but remained a backbone for IBM’s mainframe line for decades.

    Microcomputers

    • Closer relationship exists between architecture and organization in microcomputers.
    • Technological changes directly impact both architecture and the complexity of design.
    • Less stringent generation-to-generation compatibility is usually required for microcomputers compared to mainframes.

    Definitions and Concepts

    • Computer Architecture: Attributes of the system visible to programmers, impacting program execution (e.g., instruction set architecture - ISA).
    • Instruction Set Architecture (ISA): Defines instruction formats, opcodes, registers, memory impact, and execution control algorithms.
    • Computer Organization: Operational units and interconnection that fulfill architectural specifications, including hardware details not visible to programmers (e.g., control signals, peripheral interfaces).

    Architectural and Organizational Attributes

    • Architectural attributes include instruction sets, data type representation, I/O mechanisms, and memory addressing techniques.
    • Organizational attributes cover hardware like control signals and memory technologies.

    Design Considerations

    • Architectural considerations influence decisions like whether to include specific instructions (e.g., multiply).

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    Description

    Learn about the distinction between computer architecture and computer organization, including their definitions and key attributes. Discover the general areas each covers and explore alternative views.

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