Computer Hardware and Processor Design

Computer Hardware

• Computer systems consist of hardware, software, and the human user
• Hardware are the physical components
• Software are the instructions that tell the hardware what to do
• The human user operates the system

Computer Processor (CPU)

• The CPU is made up of electronic components that process data
• The components include an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and a control unit
• It has registers that hold data and instructions temporarily
• The instruction execution cycle includes fetch, decode, execute, and store steps
• The process continuously repeats until the computer is turned off

Processor Design Types

• Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC): Uses simple instructions. Operands are usually held in processor registers, and not in memory, which simplifies design. Ex: fixed instruction size
• Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC): Uses complex instructions. Operands can be in registers or memory. Instruction size varies and often uses a microprogram.

Computer Memory (Storage)

• Computer memory stores instructions and data waiting to be used by the processor
• Memory includes various types and storage media (e.g. OS software, Application programs, Data, Volatile (RAM), Non-volatile (ROM)).
• Cache: Temporary storage, very fast, but expensive. Small size, small capacity.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage, fast, affordable. Medium size, medium capacity.
• ROM (Read-Only Memory): Permanent Storage, slow, cheap, Large size, large capacity.
• Storage Device types: ROM/BIOS, HDD, Removable.
• Retrieval Methods: Sequential or Direct

Computer Memory (Capacity)

• Capacity: The amount of data that a storage medium holds. Measured in bytes, kilobytes, megabytes, gigabytes (and larger units such as terabytes, etc)
• Access time: Time taken to retrieve an item.
• Transfer rate: Speed at which data moves to/from a device.

Computer Software

• Software controls and manages computer devices and processes.
• System Software: Concerned with the computer itself. Examples include operating systems (OS).
• Operating System (OS):
  • Starts the system
  • Communicates between hardware and software
  • Controls timing of events
  • Manages data for security and integrity
  • Manages programs, memory and system performance
  • Manages files, schedules tasks and configures devices
  • Controls networks, security and provides a user interface (UI)
  • Examples: Windows, Mac OS, Unix

Explore the fundamental concepts of computer hardware, focusing on the CPU and its components. This quiz covers the basic architecture and functioning of different processor design types like RISC and CISC. Test your knowledge of how hardware interacts with software and the user.