Computer Hardware Flashcards

Flashcards for reviewing CPU, ALU, CU, and Motherboard concepts.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The brain of the computer that performs all processing tasks.

CPU Main Functions

Input processing, Data storage and movement, Output generation.

CPU Operations

Carries out arithmetic and logical operations; Controls all computer system activities.

Fetching

Retrieving instructions from memory.

Decoding

The control unit interprets instructions.

Executing

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) processes instructions.

Storing

Results stored in registers, RAM, or storage.

Controlling

Sends control signals to other components (RAM, GPU, storage, etc.)

ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)

Performs arithmetic and logical operations.

CU (Control Unit)

Supervises and coordinates all CPU Operations.

Memory Unit (RAM)

Temporarily stores data and instructions.

ALU Computations

Performs actual computations (arithmetic and logic) using an instruction code (opcode).

Arithmetic Unit (AU)

Part of the ALU that does add, subtract, multiply, and divide operations.

Logic Unit (LU)

Part of the ALU that handles compare operations like =,

Registers

Temporary, high-speed memory inside the CPU that Stores instructions, intermediate data, and results.

Single-core CPU

One core to process tasks.

Multi-core CPU

Two or more cores (e.g., dual-core, quad-core) to process multiple tasks at the same time.

CPU Speed

Measured in GHz (Gigahertz).

Motherboard

Main Printed Circuit Board (PCB) of the computer that connects all components.

Motherboard Functions

Backbone of the computer. Hosts modular parts. Provides expansion slots and distributes power. Maintains interface between components.

Buses (Data Pathways)

Wires that carry data, instructions, and signals between components.

Parallel Bus

Multiple lines for fast data transfer.

Serial Bus

Transfers data one bit at a time.

Data Bus

Transfers data.

Address Bus

Carries memory addresses.

Control Bus

Carries control signals.