Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science - Computer Architecture

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary related to the syllabus of the Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science course, specifically focusing on computer architecture.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The brain of the computer responsible for fetching, decoding, and executing instructions.

Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle (FDE)

The process carried out by the CPU to fetch, decode, and execute instructions.

Von Neumann Architecture

A design of the CPU proposed by John Von Neumann, outlining how memory, input/output devices, and the processor work together.

Control Unit (CU)

Component of the CPU that coordinates data movement and decodes instructions.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

Part of the CPU that performs arithmetic operations and logical decisions.

Registers

Extremely small, fast memory located within the CPU used to hold data for processing.

Program Counter (PC)

Register that holds the memory address of the next instruction to be executed.

Memory Address Register (MAR)

Register that holds the memory address from which data or instructions are fetched.

Memory Data Register (MDR)

Register that stores data or instructions fetched from memory.

Current Instruction Register (CIR)

Register that holds the instruction currently being decoded or executed.

Bus

A set of parallel wires through which data or signals are transmitted between components.

Cache Memory

Very small and fast memory used to store frequently accessed data and instructions.

Instruction Set

A list of commands that can be processed by a CPU, including operation codes (opcodes) and operands.

Embedded System

A computer system designed to perform a dedicated function within a larger mechanical unit.

Microprocessor

A type of integrated circuit that functions as the CPU on a single chip.

Clock Speed

Measured in Hertz (Hz), it indicates the number of fetch-decode-execute cycles that occur per second.

Multi-core Processor

A processor with multiple cores, allowing for parallel processing of instructions.