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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?
What is the primary reason for the distinction between architecture and organization?
What was the result of IBM introducing many new models with improved technology?
Why is the relationship between architecture and organization close in microcomputers?
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What was the purpose of the System/370 architecture?
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What do the Learning Objectives of the chapter include?
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What is the main difference between computer architecture and computer organization?
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What does the Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) define?
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What is an example of an architectural attribute?
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What is an example of an organizational attribute?
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Why is the decision to include a multiply instruction an architectural design issue?
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What is the main difference between an ISA and computer architecture?
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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.
