computer science unit 1 study guid

Von Neumann architecture

All modern computers are based on a single basic design called the von Neumann architecture. This is based on the idea that one singular central unit coordinates a set of instructions for the computer to do. This introduces memory as a place to store both instructions and data. This streamlined computer interaction into input and output devices. Follows a sequential process know as the fetch-decode- execute cycles

CPU

The CPU, often called the brain of the computer, performs most of the calculations and instructions. It handles tasks like arithmetic, logic operations, and controlling data flow. The CPU includes the Control Unit, which manages instructions, and the ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit), which performs mathematical and logical operations

Random access memory (ram)

Random Access Memory (RAM) is a temporary storage area where a computer keeps data and instructions that are currently in use. RAM is volatile, which means its contents are lost when the computer is turned off.

In the von Neumann architecture, memory stores both data and instructions. It is divided into two main parts:

• Instruction memory, which stores program instructions that the CPU fetches and executes.

• Data memory, which stores data used during execution, such as variables, input, and intermediate results.

What are hdds?

Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) provide long-term storage for programs, data files, and the operating system. They use magnetic disks to store data.

What are ssds?

Solid State Drives (SSDs) serve the same purpose as HDDs but use flash memory, making them faster and more reliable.

What are optical drives

Optical drives, such as CD and DVD drives, are used to read and write data on optical discs

What is the motherboard

The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all hardware components and allows them to communicate. It holds the CPU, memory, storage devices, and other key parts

What is the gpu

The GPU (graphics card) handles displaying images, videos, and 3D graphics. It takes graphics work off the CPU, making visuals smoother and more efficient.

What are input devices

Input devices let users enter information into the computer, such as a keyboard, mouse, and microphone

What are output devices

Output devices allow the computer to show results, such as a monitor, printer, and speakers

Fetch-decode-execute cycle

The von Neumann architecture follows a sequential process called the fetch–decode–execute cycle. The CPU fetches an instruction from memory, decodes it to understand what action to perform, and then executes it. This cycle repeats continuously, allowing the computer to run programs and process instructions

What are the two system softwares

System software and application software

What is system software

System software runs the computer and manages hardware. It helps the user interact with the computer. Examples include operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as drivers and compilers.

What is application software

Application software helps users do specific tasks. Examples include word processors, spreadsheets, and web browsers

Computer language explain

Once computers were created, there was a need to communicate with them. At their core, computers work using electronic instructions based on electricity being on or off. This led to the use of binary language, which has two states: 1 (on) and 0 (off). Programs are executed as long sequences of these ones and zeros.

Because binary is complex and hard for humans to read and write, higher-level programming languages were developed. These languages are more human-readable and easier to use while still allowing computers to execute instructions.

Pseudocode to high level language

Human languages cannot be directly converted into binary because they are full of ambiguities and assumptions that computers cannot understand.

The next step is pseudocode, an informal, text-based language that helps programmers plan and design algorithms. Pseudocode is easier for humans to read and write and acts as a bridge between human ideas and computer instructions

Programming language