SY110 - Computer Architecture Notes

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering core concepts from the lecture notes on computer architecture and hardware.

Computer Architecture

Fundamental blueprint of a computer system; outlines how hardware components work together and how they interact with software.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The brain of the computer; executes instructions, performs calculations, and manages data flow.

ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)

CPU unit that performs mathematical and logical operations.

Control Unit (CU)

CPU component that directs the fetch-decode-execute cycle.

Registers

Small, high-speed storage locations inside the CPU for temporary data.

Cache Memory

Extremely fast memory near the CPU that stores frequently used data.

Motherboard

The main printed circuit board that connects all major components and provides data buses.

Buses

Pathways (address, data, and control) that transfer data between CPU, memory, and peripherals.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Volatile storage that holds data and instructions the CPU is actively using.

ROM (Read-Only Memory)

Non-volatile storage that holds essential boot-up instructions (BIOS/UEFI) and startup checks.

Volatile Storage

Data that is lost when power is removed; e.g., RAM.

Non-Volatile Storage

Data retained without power; e.g., ROM, HDDs, SSDs.

Primary Storage

Volatile storage used by the CPU for current operations (RAM).

Secondary Storage

Non-volatile storage used for long-term data retention (HDDs, SSDs, flash drives, optical).

HDD (Hard Disk Drive)

Mechanical storage with spinning platters; large capacity, slower access.

SSD (Solid State Drive)

Flash memory storage with no moving parts; faster, smaller, and typically more expensive.

Optical Drive

Storage device for CDs and DVDs (optical media).

Flash Drive

Portable USB flash memory used for removable storage.

Expansion Slots (PCIe)

Slots on the motherboard for adding high-performance cards (graphics, network, etc.).

Cooling Fans

Fans that prevent overheating by moving air across components.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Converts AC power to low-voltage DC power for the system; wires indicate voltages.

Peripherals

Input and Output devices that enable interaction with the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer).

Input Device

Device that provides data to the computer (keyboard, mouse, microphone, touchscreen).

Output Device

Device that presents data from the computer (monitor, printer, speakers).

Hybrid Device

Device that serves as both input and output (e.g., touchscreen).

Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle

The process by which the CPU fetches an instruction, decodes it, and executes it; repeats.

Program Counter (PC)

Register that holds the address of the next instruction to fetch.

Instruction Decoder

Component that translates the fetched instruction during the Decode stage.

Data at Rest

Data stored on a medium not actively being used or transmitted.

Data in Transit

Data actively moving from one location to another.

Data in Use

Data actively being processed by the CPU and RAM.

OS (Operating System)

Software that manages hardware resources and provides a bridge between users/apps and hardware.

Users

People who interact with the computer, providing inputs via devices.

Applications

Software that enables user interaction with the system and runs on top of the OS.

Chipset

Group of controllers that manage data flow between CPU, RAM, and peripherals (including Northbridge and Southbridge).

Northbridge

Chipset component handling memory and high-speed I/O interconnections.

Southbridge

Chipset component handling I/O and peripheral interfaces.