Computer Science Basics Quiz

A device that processes data using a set of instructions, performing calculations, storing information, retrieving data, and displaying results.

The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of the computer, responsible for executing instructions and processing data.

Storage refers to the components that hold data and programs, allowing the computer to retain information even when turned off.

Computers are designed to be versatile and can perform different tasks depending on the program they are running, making them adaptable to various situations.

The evolution of computers spans generations, marked by advancements in technology, miniaturization, and increased processing power. It's an ongoing journey towards more powerful and efficient computing.

A binary representation of negative numbers where the most significant bit (MSB) indicates the sign (1 for negative, 0 for positive) and the remaining bits represent the magnitude using Two's Complement.

A logic circuit that performs binary addition of two single-bit inputs, producing a sum and a carry output.

A logic circuit that adds three binary inputs: two data bits (A and B) and a carry-in (Cin). It produces a sum output (S) and a carry-out (Cout).

A circuit built by chaining multiple full adders to handle the addition of two multi-bit numbers. The carry-out of each full adder is connected as the carry-in to the next full adder in the chain.

A method used in computers to subtract binary numbers by converting subtraction into addition. It involves taking the Two's Complement of the subtrahend and adding it to the minuend.

A digital circuit that allows selecting one of multiple input signals based on a digital control signal.

ALU control signals (like zx, nx, f, no) determine the type of operation the ALU will perform. Each signal controls a particular function, enabling flexible data manipulation.

The zx control signal enables or disables the input 'x' of the ALU. When zx is 0, 'x' is passed, and when zx is 1, 'x' is zeroed out.

The nx control signal negates (inverts) the input 'x' of the ALU. If nx is 1, the input 'x' is inverted, and if nx is 0, 'x' is passed unchanged.

The 'f' control signal determines the ALU's operation. It can be used for different logic operations, such as AND, NOT, or OR.

The 'no' control signal negates the output of the ALU (not always used, depending on the ALU implementation).

The ALU is a versatile component that can perform both arithmetic and logic operations as per the control signals. It has a key role in processing data within the CPU.

Each register holds a value represented as a sequence of 8 bits, which can be accessed individually.

A memory unit that directly stores data in a sequential manner using a series of registers, each with its own unique address.

A special register that stores the memory address of the next instruction the CPU needs to execute.

The process of incrementing the Program Counter (PC) to point to the next instruction in sequence.

Setting the Program Counter (PC) to a specific address, allowing the CPU to start executing instructions from that point onwards.

A mechanism that allows selecting which data source (register) to access or update, based on a specific address.

A set of instructions that the CPU understands directly, expressed in binary code.

A way of representing data or program locations within an instruction using different methods, such as immediate values, direct addresses, or indirect addressing.

A sequence of actions that the CPU follows to execute an instruction, starting with fetching the instruction, decoding it, and finally executing it.

The part of the computer architecture that handles the storing and retrieval of instructions.

A type of instruction that modifies data in memory.

A type of instruction that loads or stores values directly.

The part of the CPU responsible for performing calculations and logical operations.

The part of the computer architecture that stores data, often used to hold program variables and temporary results.

A type of memory that holds data that cannot be changed, often used to store the computer's boot program.

A type of memory that stores data randomly, using addresses for access.

A circuit with a memory element (like flip-flop) that stores a bit of information (0 or 1) and can be set or reset depending on the input signals.

A type of latch that is able to set itself to a '1' or reset itself to a '0' depending on the inputs.

A type of flip-flop that stores a single bit of data and can be controlled by a clock signal.

The central processing unit of a computer, responsible for carrying out instructions and processing data.

A unit within a CPU responsible for performing arithmetic and logical operations on data.

A collection of several D flip-flops working together to store multiple bits of data.

A specific type of memory that stores instructions and data for the CPU to access quickly during processing.