Microprocessor Introduction and Types of Computers

The first computing device used for arithmetic tasks.

Early computers that processed information using physical quantities like voltage or pressure, for example, in astronomical calculations.

These were devices like pocket calculators that performed basic arithmetic operations like multiplication and division.

A device that used distances and intervals on a line to represent real numbers, initially for scientific calculations.

A technology where instructions were coded using holes punched on cards, used to control machines or programs.

A device using vacuum tubes for processing data, one of the early electronic computers.

A semiconductor device that revolutionized electronics, replacing bulky vacuum tubes, paving the way for smaller and more powerful computers.

The first single-chip microprocessor, marking a significant milestone in computing.

An 8-bit microprocessor that paved the way for more powerful processors.

A faster processor that significantly improved computing performance.

A microprocessor specifically used to control peripherals like printers and disk drives.

A microprocessor used in portable computing, taking the power of microprocessors to smaller devices.

Very similar to the 8086, but with an 8-bit external bus, which means it communicates data in smaller chunks.

A microprocessor primarily used in embedded systems like industrial machines and appliances.

Similar to the 80186, but with an 8-bit external data bus, making its data transfer slower than the 80186.

A microprocessor widely used in IBM-PC AT and compatible computers, marking a significant era in personal computing.

A circuit within the CPU responsible for carrying out mathematical operations (addition, subtraction, etc.) and logical operations (AND, OR, NOT).

The component of the CPU that controls the flow of instructions and data within the computer system.

A type of memory that stores data temporarily, losing its contents when the power is turned off.

A type of memory that retains its data even when the power is off.

A group of communication lines that allow different parts of a computer system to exchange data and instructions.

The part of the bus that carries data between the CPU and other components like memory.

The part of the bus that carries memory addresses, allowing the CPU to access specific memory locations.

The part of the bus that carries control signals, coordinating the actions of different components.

A type of electronic switch that revolutionized computing, replacing bulky vacuum tubes.

The first microprocessor created specifically for use in calculators.

A special program or hardware that allows a process to get immediate attention from the CPU, interrupting the normal flow of execution.

A type of interrupt that is frequently used for timing events and counting operations, helping control the speed of a program.

The Control Unit orchestrates the execution of instructions, fetching data, and directing the flow of information between the CPU and peripheral devices.

A type of computer architecture that focuses on simplicity and efficiency by using a limited set of instructions.

A built-in system that monitors the computer to ensure it's working properly, resetting it if it detects errors. It safeguards against unexpected behavior.

The central processing unit (CPU) is the 'brain' of the computer; It's a complex circuit that executes instructions from programs.

The System Bus is a set of electrical pathways that connect different components of a computer system like the CPU, memory, and peripheral devices.

Interrupts are signals that tell the CPU to stop its current task and handle something urgent, like a key press or an error.

Maskable Interrupts (IRQ) are signals that the CPU can choose to ignore if it is busy with another task, but Non-Maskable Interrupts (NMI) are always handled by the CPU.

A Video Display Controller is a special circuit in the computer that manages the image you see on your screen; it converts computer data into a video signal that can be displayed.

A Coprocessor is like an assistant to the CPU, handling specific tasks like advanced calculations, graphics, or encryption.

A Watchdog Timer is a timing device that monitors the CPU's activity and resets the system if it detects a problem or if the CPU stops responding.