Computer System Architecture Quiz

Study Notes

Computer System Architecture

A computer system is a complex collection of components working together to execute instructions.
It comprises hardware (physical components) and software (programs).
The fundamental structure often involves input, processing, output, and storage units.

Key Hardware Components

Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer; executes instructions.
- Consists of Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) for calculations and Control Unit (CU) for coordinating operations.
- Speed measured in gigahertz (GHz).
Memory (RAM): Stores data and instructions currently being used by the CPU.
- Volatile—data lost when power is off.
- Fast access speeds compared to secondary storage.
Secondary Storage: Stores data and programs persistently (even when the computer is off).
- Examples: hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs).
- Slower access times than RAM, but higher storage capacity.
Input Devices: Allow users to provide data to the computer.
- Examples: keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone.
Output Devices: Present processed data to the user.
- Examples: monitor, printer, speakers.
Buses: Communication channels that connect different components.
- Transfer data between CPU, memory, and other components.
- Different types transmit data at variable speeds and in different formats.

System Software

Operating System (OS): Manages hardware and software resources.
- Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux.
- Facilitates interaction between applications and hardware.
Utility Programs: Perform specific tasks like file management, disk cleanup, and system optimization.
- Assist in streamlining system functions.
Device Drivers: Allow the OS to communicate with specific hardware devices.
- Ensure proper functioning of peripherals.
- Enable the OS to handle different types of input/output.

Instruction Cycle

CPU follows a cycle to execute instructions.
- Fetch: Retrieves an instruction from memory.
- Decode: Interprets the instruction's meaning.
- Execute: Performs the specified operation.
- Store: Stores the results to memory or registers.

Computer System Organization

Von Neumann Architecture: Instructions and data stored in the same memory.
- Common approach, although modifications and variations exist.
Harvard Architecture: Separate memories for instructions and data.
- Allows simultaneous access, potentially increasing processing speed.

System Performance Factors

Clock Speed: Measures the frequency of CPU cycles per second.
Cache Memory: Small, very fast memory that stores frequently accessed data.
Memory Bandwidth: The rate at which data can be transferred to and from memory.
Bus Speed: The transfer rate of data across buses.

Interconnections

Motherboard: Connects all the components of a computer.
- Contains slots and sockets for various components.
- Defines how components interact.

Types of Computers

Personal Computers (PCs): Designed for individual use, varying in size and capabilities.
Workstations: More powerful PCs, typically used for demanding tasks such as design or scientific computations.
Servers: Provide resources to multiple users and applications.
Embedded Systems: Designed for specific tasks, often integrated into larger devices.
- Examples: control systems in cars, appliances, and industrial machinery.

Trends in Computer Systems

Moore's Law: Observation that the number of transistors on integrated circuits doubles approximately every two years.
- Reflects ongoing miniaturization in hardware design.
Cloud Computing: Access computing resources and services over a network.
Parallel Processing: Utilizing multiple processors to perform tasks simultaneously.
Specialized Hardware: GPUs, FPGAs, for specific domains like graphics and parallel computations.

Description

Test your knowledge on the components and functioning of computer systems with this quiz on Computer System Architecture. It covers essential hardware components such as the CPU, RAM, and storage, as well as their roles in executing instructions.