Computer Organization and Architecture Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is an architectural attribute of a computer system?

I/O mechanisms (correct)

The speed of the multiply unit

Memory technology used

Control signals

Which factor might influence the decision on how to implement the multiply instruction in a computer system?

The maximum number of bits for data representation

The software compatibility with older systems

The architecture of the system

The anticipated frequency of use of the instruction (correct)

Why is the distinction between architecture and organization important?

It dictates the physical size of the computers.

It influences the overall price of computer systems.

It allows for software compatibility across different hardware. (correct)

It determines the types of data representation.

Which of the following is an example of organizational attributes?

Memory technology used Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic has allowed the IBM System/370 architecture to endure over the years?

Retention of compatibility with existing software Signup and view all the answers

How does the relationship between architecture and organization vary among computer families?

Models can have the same architecture with varying organizational attributes. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential advantage for customers of the IBM System/370 architecture?

Possibility of upgrading without software loss Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the term 'microcomputers' in the context of architecture and organization?

Their architectural and organizational aspects are closely linked. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four basic functions that a computer can perform?

Data processing, data storage, data movement, control Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for a computer to store data even when processing it immediately?

To temporarily hold data being worked on at any moment Signup and view all the answers

In a functional view of the computer, what role does the control mechanism play?

Regulates the operations and data flow of other components Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following components are primarily responsible for data movement in a computer?

Input/output devices and buses Signup and view all the answers

How does data processing typically occur within a computer's operation?

By using a variety of fundamental methods and types Signup and view all the answers

What does the data movement apparatus primarily do in a computer system?

It transfers data between different components of the system Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the figure illustrating a functional view of the computer?

A simplified representation of the computer's primary functions Signup and view all the answers

What type of data can typically be processed by a computer?

A wide variety of data forms including text and images Signup and view all the answers

What does computer architecture encompass?

Attributes visible to the programmer Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly defines computer organization?

The operational units and their interconnections Signup and view all the answers

What primarily drives the design objectives in computer architecture?

Technological advancements and price/performance objectives Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately conveys the relationship between computer organization and architecture?

Organization implements architectural specifications through physical structures. Signup and view all the answers

What makes the study of computer structure and function challenging?

The variety in product types and rapid technological changes Signup and view all the answers

What is one main reason for distinguishing between organization and architecture in computing?

To understand the impact on program execution Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of computing does architectural design NOT typically influence?

User interface design principles Signup and view all the answers

How can changes in computer technology affect computer design goals?

They can alter the focus on price/performance objectives. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor influencing the interplay between organizational and architectural design decisions?

Changes in technology Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'hierarchical system' refer to in the context of computers?

A set of interrelated subsystems arranged in levels Signup and view all the answers

Which describes the function of a component in a computer system?

The operational role of each component within the structure Signup and view all the answers

What is a key approach suggested for describing complex systems like computers?

Beginning with a top view and decomposing the system Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best captures the concept of structure in a computer system?

The manner in which components are interrelated Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of reduced instruction set computers (RISC) on architectural requirements?

They simplify architectural design due to fewer instructions Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect requires a detailed examination when discussing computer organization?

Architectural specifications Signup and view all the answers

What does contemporary computers' complexity primarily derive from?

The hierarchical arrangement of components Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a control unit within a computer?

To manage the computer's resources and operations Signup and view all the answers

Which process is referred to when data is received from or delivered to a directly connected device?

Input-output (I/O) Signup and view all the answers

How does a computer function as a data movement device?

By transferring data between peripherals or communications lines Signup and view all the answers

What type of operation involves transferring data from the external environment to computer storage?

Reading data Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates the functions performed by computers from their structure?

The general-purpose nature of computers Signup and view all the answers

In what circumstance does data communications occur?

When data is moved over long distances to/from remote devices Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a computer functioning as a data storage device?

Storing files for future retrieval Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about computers and their functionality?

All functional specifications occur only during programming. Signup and view all the answers

Which component of the computer is primarily responsible for controlling its operations?

Central processing unit (CPU) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the main memory in a computer?

To store data Signup and view all the answers

In the top-level structure of a computer, which component interacts directly with both input/output and main memory?

System bus Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a structural component of the computer according to the description provided?

Input/Output devices Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the CPU is responsible for executing mathematical operations?

ALU Signup and view all the answers

What role do registers play in the operation of the CPU?

Temporary data storage Signup and view all the answers

The components known as peripheral devices primarily serve what purpose?

To enable communication with external environments Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly defines the term 'internal bus' within a computer system?

A communication channel for data transfer among internal components Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction

This book details the structure and function of modern computers
Variety and rapid technological change are key challenges
Fundamental concepts are consistent despite these changes
Focuses on computer organization and architecture, with a descriptive approach
Distinction between computer architecture (visible to programmer) and computer organization (operational units)

Organization and Architecture

Computer architecture encompasses programmer-visible attributes
Instruction set, data representation, I/O mechanisms, and memory addressing
Computer organization focuses on operational units and interconnections
Choices like multiply instruction implementation exemplify the distinction
Historical importance of architecture vs. organization (e.g., IBM System/370 family)

Structure and Function

Computers are complex systems with millions of components
Hierarchical structure for description and design (subsystems within subsystems)
Structure concerns interrelationships, while function concerns operations
Top-down approach: starting with overall system and breaking down into parts
Key functions: data processing, data storage, data movement, and control
Computer must process data, store data (both short-term and long-term), move data between computer and external devices, and control these functions (input/output, I/O), through control units
Structure and function in computer design
Computer architecture and its components
Computer organization and its components

Key Terms and Review Questions

Key terms include: ALU, CPU, computer architecture, computer organization, control unit, I/O, main memory, processor, registers, system bus
Review questions include distinctions between organization and architecture, computer structure and function, main computer functions, main structural components of a computer, and main structural components of a processor.
This section outlines important terminology and questions for reviewing the chapter's concepts

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Description

This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of computer organization and architecture, outlining the differences between these two critical areas. It highlights how changes in technology impact the design and function of modern computers while maintaining consistent principles. Test your understanding of these essential topics in computer science.