Computer Hardware, Systems Software & Networking Overview

These flashcards cover essential concepts related to computer architecture, including system components, data communications, and network topologies discussed in the lecture.

What are the three key aspects of system architecture mentioned in the lecture?

Components, Controllers, and Interconnections.

What is the typical layout of a Basic Personal Computer System?

Includes a CPU, memory interface, USB ports, Wi-Fi NIC, storage, and various controllers.

Which architecture is primarily used in mainframe computers?

Channel Subsystem Architecture.

What does PCI-Express connect within a computer system?

Connects the CPU chip or I/O chipset to various peripheral controllers.

In data communications, what does a 'packet' refer to?

A group of related data, encapsulated by a header containing information about the packet.

What are the characteristics of a communication channel?

Path for the message, includes links, bandwidth, and medium (guided or unguided).

What is the function of a device driver?

Software that controls I/O devices.

What are the advantages of using packets in data communications?

Simplifies operations, increases efficiency, and allows multiple sources to share a channel.

Describe the features of a Star Topology.

All nodes connect point-to-point to a central device that facilitates communication between nodes.

What is the primary disadvantage of a Full Mesh Network?

Impractical due to the large number of connections needed.