20 Questions
Why is it important to understand how a computer works at a low level?
It helps in understanding the motivation behind certain approaches in computer science
What is the consequence of not knowing the low-level details of a machine when coding?
Low code quality and high tolerance for it
Why have high-level programming languages been designed to abstract from low-level machine details?
To remove the need for understanding the machine
What has been the trend in teaching coding to people in terms of understanding the machine?
Trend towards ignoring the machine when teaching coding
Why are electrical, mechanical, and civil engineers mentioned in comparison to software engineers?
To highlight the differences in discipline and standards
What is the main disadvantage of the von Neumann architecture?
The von Neumann bottleneck due to a single memory bus for both code and data
What is the key advantage of a von Neumann machine over Harvard architecture?
Common address space for code and data
What is the main advantage of the Harvard architecture over a von Neumann machine?
Ability to fetch code and data simultaneously
Why is the memory bus referred to as the von Neumann bottleneck?
Because it needs to transport code and data on the same bus when the machine is running
How does a von Neumann machine address the issue of addressing code and data in memory?
By providing a common format for addresses for both code and data
Why does it usually take multiple RISC instructions to do what a single CISC instruction does?
CISC instructions are more complex and specialized, allowing them to perform multiple tasks in a single instruction
What is one of the advantages of RISC over CISC architecture?
Higher execution speed for individual instructions
Why are most smartphones, tablets, and computers embedded in non-computer devices RISC machines?
RISC machines require less power, making them suitable for mobile and embedded devices
What sets the RISC-V ISA apart from other RISC architectures?
It allows anyone to build their own RISC-V processor without paying any licensing fees
Why is the RISC architecture chosen as the model for the text's discussion?
RISC architecture represents the largest market share in terms of number of sold CPUs
What distinguishes a 64-bit machine word from a word in the context of RISC-V architecture?
A 64-bit machine word is actually a double word, while a word is usually only 32 bits.
How does the number of instructions in RISC architecture compare to CISC architecture?
RISC machines typically feature a few dozen instructions, whereas CISC machines may implement hundreds and even thousands of instructions.
What does an instruction set architecture (ISA) provide in relation to programming a machine?
An ISA provides just the right information needed to program a machine at the level of machine code, but not how to build one.
Why are RISC instructions considered different from CISC instructions?
RISC instructions are usually simpler and more general compared to CISC instructions.
In what way does the von Neumann architecture differ from the Harvard architecture?
The von Neumann architecture uses a single shared bus for both instruction fetch and data access, while the Harvard architecture uses separate buses for instruction fetch and data access.
Explore the fundamental principles behind computer design and operation, and how they influence various aspects of computer science. Gain insight into the magic of computer manipulation and its role in shaping technology.
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