Key Components of Computer Systems

Vocabulary flashcards defining fundamental computer organization and architecture concepts, core functional facilities, CPU structure, and system bus types based on the lecture material.

Computer System

An electronic system that accepts data as input, processes the data according to a set of instructions, stores data and instructions, and produces useful information as output.

Connection

A link between two points.

Interconnection

A link among multiple components.

Computer Architecture

Attributes of a computer system visible to a programmer or system designer that have a direct impact on the logical execution of a program, such as instruction sets, data representation bits, I/O mechanisms, and memory addressing techniques.

Computer Organization

Refers to the operational units and their interconnections that realize architectural specifications, focusing on how hardware features are implemented (such as control signals, interfaces, and memory technology).

Control Signals

Signals generated by the control unit to coordinate and direct the operations of the CPU and other computer components, determining what operation should be performed and when.

Interface

The mechanisms that allow different computer components or systems to communicate and exchange data, defining how devices connect and interact.

Memory Technology

Refers to the technologies used to store and retrieve data and instructions in a computer system, differing in speed, capacity, cost, and volatility.

Structure

The way in which computer components are interrelated.

Function

The operation of each individual component as part of the structure.

Operating Environment

Everything outside the computer system that serves as the source or destination of data.

Data Processing Facility

The component capability responsible for processing data, including arithmetic operations, logical operations, data manipulation, and decision making.

Data Storage Facility

The component capability that holds data, instructions, and intermediate or final results.

Data Movement Apparatus

The component capability responsible for transferring data between the computer system and its operating environment.

Control Mechanism

The component mechanism that directs data processing, storage, and movement operations.

Functional View

A perspective that describes a computer based on the functions it performs rather than its physical appearance.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

A major CPU component responsible for performing arithmetic and logical operations.

Control Unit (CU)

A major structural component of the processor that coordinates processor operations, instruction execution, and the movement of instructions and data.

Registers

Components inside the processor that provide extremely fast temporary storage.

Main Memory (RAM)

Memory component that stores programs currently being executed, data being processed, and intermediate results currently needed.

Input/Output (I/O)

Components that provide communication for data to move between the computer and external devices.

System Bus

A system interconnection mechanism that provides communication pathways between the processor, main memory, and I/O devices.

Data Bus

A system interconnection bus that carries actual data between components.

Address Bus

A system interconnection bus that carries addresses identifying memory or I/O locations.

Control Bus

A system interconnection bus that carries control and timing signals.