Introduction to Computer & Its Architecture

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Questions and Answers

What is one primary characteristic of computers that allows them to work without fatigue?

Diligence (correct)

Versatility

Speed

Accuracy

How is the speed of a computer typically measured?

In MHz (MegaHertz) (correct)

In volts

In degrees Celsius

In bytes

What does the term GIGO represent in computer accuracy?

General Input Guarantee Output

Get Input Geared Optimally

Guaranteed Input General Output

Garbage In Garbage Out (correct)

Which characteristic of computers enables them to store vast amounts of information?

Storage Capability Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean when it is said that computers have 'No I.Q.'?

Computers operate strictly on pre-defined instructions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics allows a computer to perform various tasks simultaneously?

Versatility Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the term accuracy in regard to computers?

The precision of operations based on the design and inputs Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic allows computers to operate consistently without needing breaks?

Diligence Signup and view all the answers

Which generation of computers is characterized by the use of integrated circuits and microprocessors?

Fourth Generation Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant advantage of the Fourth Generation computers compared to earlier generations?

Improved portability Signup and view all the answers

What does LSI stand for in the context of computer chip technology?

Large Scale Integration Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the Fourth Generation's impact on data communication?

Development of different types of secondary memory. Signup and view all the answers

What advancement was made in the storage capacity of hard disks during the Fourth Generation?

They became economical, smaller, and larger in capacity. Signup and view all the answers

What is a drawback of the technology used in Fourth Generation computers?

Requires complex and sophisticated technology for manufacturing. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Fourth Generation computers?

High power consumption compared to earlier models. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Fourth Generation simplify the production of computers compared to earlier generations?

Through mass production of integrated circuits. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Control Unit within the CPU?

To direct and coordinate operations Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the CPU is responsible for performing logical and arithmetic operations?

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Address Bus inform the CPU about?

The location of the data in memory Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the system bus in a computer?

It transmits data between different units Signup and view all the answers

How is the width of the system bus measured?

In bits Signup and view all the answers

Which component of the CPU is primarily involved in interpreting instructions?

Control Unit Signup and view all the answers

What type of operations does the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) perform?

Arithmetic and logical operations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of input and output devices in relation to the CPU?

They allow interaction with the computer by providing data and receiving information. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of microcomputers?

They use a microprocessor as their central processing unit. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a workstation?

A desktop computer with enhanced processing capabilities. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of computer is primarily designed for mobile use?

Laptop computer Signup and view all the answers

How are embedded computers typically characterized?

They consist of a microprocessor programmed for specific functions. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes handheld computers from other computer types?

They are designed to fit in one hand and have touch input. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a classification of laptops?

Embedded Signup and view all the answers

What is the main feature of desktop computers?

They have separate display screens and peripherals. Signup and view all the answers

In which application area can microcomputers be commonly found?

Control systems in transportation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the address bus in a CPU system?

To carry address signals to memory for data retrieval. Signup and view all the answers

What best describes registers in a CPU?

They hold data and instructions currently being processed. Signup and view all the answers

Which register is used to keep track of the next instruction to be executed?

Program Counter (PC) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Control Bus in a CPU system?

To synchronize operations between CPU, memory, and I/O devices. Signup and view all the answers

What data does the Memory Buffer Register (MBR) hold?

The data currently being fetched or sent by the CPU. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following registers is generally used for temporary results from the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)?

Accumulator (ACC) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the Memory Address Register (MAR)?

It keeps track of the next location to access in memory. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the Data Register (DR)?

It holds the operands and other data being processed. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of a Computer

A computer is a general-purpose, programmable device that processes information through input and output.
It performs mathematical and non-mathematical operations based on instructions to achieve desired results.

Characteristics of Computers

Speed: Computers process data at an incredibly fast rate, measured in MHz (MegaHertz), equivalent to one million instructions per second.
Accuracy: They operate with high accuracy, determined by the design and instructions. Human errors can lead to incorrect data input, emphasized by the GIGO principle (Garbage In, Garbage Out).
Reliability: Computers perform operations without failure and require no human intervention for processing tasks.
Diligence: They do not experience tiredness or lack of concentration, maintaining consistent performance.
Versatility: Capable of handling multiple tasks simultaneously, such as calculations and graphics processing.
Storage Capability: Unlike humans, computers can store large volumes of data, typically using storage devices like magnetic tapes or disks.
No IQ: Computers do not possess intelligence or emotions; they operate based solely on programmed instructions.

Generational Evolution of Computers

Third Generation (1964-1970): Characterized by smaller and more reliable devices, integrating keyboards and monitors for user interaction.
Fourth Generation (Early 1970s - Present): Features integrated circuits and microprocessors, enabling portable computers and rapid growth in data communication. Types include digital watches, pocket calculators, and personal computers.

Types of Computers According to Size & Processing Power

Microcomputers: Small, low-cost computers with a microprocessor as the CPU, often personal computers. Subcategories include:
- Desktop: Commonly used with separate components.
- Workstation: Enhanced desktop for specific tasks like 3D graphics.
- Laptop: Portable computers integrating multiple components into one unit.
- Handheld: Compact devices with touch input, including smartphones and PDAs.
- Embedded Computers: Microprocessors programmed for specific tasks.

Interaction Between Functional Blocks

Processor (CPU): Interprets and executes instructions, consisting of:
- Control Unit: Directs and coordinates operations.
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
System Bus: A set of wires allowing communication between CPU, memory, and I/O devices. Comprised of:
- Data Bus: Transfers data between components.
- Address Bus: Carries memory address information from CPU to memory.
- Control Bus: Coordinates data transfer and device readiness.

Registers in CPU

Temporary high-speed storage areas that hold data and instructions currently processed by the CPU. Key registers include:
- Program Counter (PC): Tracks the next instruction to be executed.
- Instruction Register (IR): Holds instructions for decoding by the control unit.
- Memory Address Register (MAR): Contains the address of the next memory location.
- Memory Buffer Register (MBR): Stores data being sent to or from the CPU.
- Accumulator (ACC): Temporary storage for results produced by ALU.
- Data Register (DR): Holds operands and other necessary data.

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Description

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of computers and their architecture. It includes definitions of a computer, its characteristics, and the basic functioning of input and output processes. Test your knowledge on what defines a computer and its capabilities.