Computer Organization and Architecture - Chapter 2 Summary

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to computer organization and architecture, particularly focusing on performance issues and improvements.

Performance Issues

Concerns related to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of computer systems.

Microprocessor Speed

The rate at which a microprocessor can process instructions, influenced by architecture, pipelining, and cache design.

Pipelining

A technique where multiple instruction phases are overlapped in execution to improve performance.

Branch Prediction

A method used by processors to guess which path of a branch instruction will be taken, to preload the necessary instructions.

Superscalar Execution

Capability of a processor to execute more than one instruction per clock cycle by using multiple pipelines.

Data Flow Analysis

The examination of data dependencies between instructions to optimize scheduling and execution.

Speculative Execution

A performance optimization technique in which a processor executes instructions ahead of time, based on predictions.

Amdahl's Law

Formula used to find the maximum improvement of a system when only part of that system is improved.

Little's Law

A mathematical formula that defines the relationship between the average number of items in a queuing system, the arrival rate, and the time an item spends in the system.

Multicore Processing

Using multiple processor cores on a single chip to enhance performance without increasing clock speed.

Cache Memory

A smaller, faster type of volatile memory that provides high-speed data access to a processor and improves performance.

Performance Balance

Achieving an optimal level of performance by balancing speed, processing power, and resource allocation.

Chip Organization and Architecture

The design and arrangement of the components and circuitry on a computer chip that affects its performance.