1-Systems Architecture

What is the purpose of the CPU?

Run FDE cycle to execute computer instructions

What are the 4 elements required to form a basic computer system?

CU, Registers, ALU, RAM

What are the 2 main components of the CPU?

ALU and CU

Which architecture first described in 1945 allows for data and programs to be stored in same location?

Von Neumann

Which cycle does CPU carry out to process instructions?

FDE cycle

What number system does Von Neumann architecure use?

Binary

What is the role of MAR?

Stores address of current instruction to be fetched from RAM

What is the role of the MDR?

Stores data/instructions fetched from RAM

What is the role of the PC?

Stores the address of the next instruction to be fetched from RAM

What is the role of the Accumulator?

Stores results of logic operations and calculations

What is the function of the CU?

Decode instructions, Control CPU components

What is cache memory and why is it useful?

Very fast memory inside CPU that stores frequently used data/instructions so they dont have to be fetched from RAM

What are the steps of FDE cycle?(6)

MAR - Stores address of current instruction to be fetched from RAM

MDR - Stores the data/instructions once fetched from RAM

CU - Decodes data/instructions

ALU - Executes logic operations

ACC - Stores output PC - Incrementes by 1

-Then everything is repeated

What factors affect CPU performance?(4)

RAM size, Clock Speed, Cache Size, Number of Cores

What is an embedded system?

A computer system built into a larger mechanical device

What are some examples of embedded systems?

Dishwasher, Washing machine, Microwave Oven

What are the differences between embedded and general purpose systems?

Embedded - 1 specific task, Slow execution, Reliable, No updates, Cheap

General - Multiple tasks, Fast execution, Not as reliable, Updates, Expensive