Computer Arch

Computer Architecture Module 1

Instructor Information

  • Instructor: Mr. Jn Baptiste

  • Email: no_reply@example.com

Page 1: What is a Computer System?

  • Definition:

    • An electronic device operating under software instructions stored in memory.

  • Functions:

    • Accepts data (input)

    • Manipulates data (process)

    • Produces information (output)

  • Information Processing Cycle:

    • Input

    • Process

    • Output

    • Storage

Data vs. Information

  • Data:

    • Collection of raw facts, figures, and symbols (e.g., video, sound).

  • Information:

    • Organized, meaningful, and useful data.

    • Presented in a readable form (e.g., printed report) or stored for later use.

Page 2: Why are Computers Powerful?

  • Key Attributes:

    • High-speed processing of the information cycle.

    • Reliability (low failure rate).

    • High accuracy.

    • Vast storage capacity.

    • Communication capabilities with other computers.

Computer Instructions

  • Software:

    • A detailed list of instructions stored in memory before processing.

    • Programs are executed sequentially.

Primary Components of a Computer

  • Input devices

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU)

  • Memory

  • Output devices

Page 3: Memory Types

RAM (Random Access Memory)

  • Characteristics:

    • Volatile (data lost when powered off).

    • Main memory for storing data (graphics, sound, text).

ROM (Read Only Memory)

  • Characteristics:

    • Permanent memory containing startup instructions.

Memory Measurements

  • Terms and Abbreviations:

    • Kilobyte (KB or K) = 2^10

    • Megabyte (MB) = 2^20

    • Gigabyte (GB) = 2^30

    • Terabyte (TB) = 2^40

Page 4: Input Devices

Keyboard

  • Most commonly used input device with 101 or 105 keys.

Mouse

  • Pointing device for screen navigation with one to five buttons.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

  • Functions:

    • Interprets instructions.

    • Performs logical and arithmetic operations.

    • Manages input and output operations.

Page 5: History of Computers

Early Devices

  • ABACUS (2500 BC): First counting machine using beads and rods.

  • Napier’s Bones (1617): Counting rods with logarithm values.

  • Slide Rule (1932): Used for calculations in NASA programs.

Notable Figures

  • Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519): Designed calculating machines.

  • Wilhelm Schickard (1623): Built the first gear-driven calculating machine.

Page 6: Significant Calculators

Pascal’s Calculator (1642)

  • Created by Blaise Pascal to assist his father, a tax collector.

Leibniz Calculator

  • Modified Pascal's design for multiplication and division.

Charles Babbage

  • Proposed the Difference Engine and later the Analytical Engine.

Page 7: Analytical Engine

  • Features:

    • Programmable using punch cards.

    • Included concepts of memory and processing (Store and Mill).

  • Ada Byron: Recognized as the first computer programmer.

Page 8: First Generation Computers (1940-1956)

  • Components: Vacuum tubes.

  • Challenges: High heat production, cost, and size.

  • Hollerith Desk: Used punch cards for the 1890 US census.

Mark 1

  • First programmable digital computer in the US, used for military calculations.

Page 9: ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer)

  • Specifications:

    • Filled a 20x40 foot room, weighed 30 tons, used over 18,000 vacuum tubes.

Stored Program Concept

  • Introduced by John von Neumann in 1945.

Page 10: Second Generation Computers (Transistors)

  • Transistors: Replaced vacuum tubes, making computers smaller and faster.

  • UNIVAC: First commercial computer to use magnetic tape.

Page 11: Von-Neumann Architecture

  • Components:

    • Memory, processor, control unit.

Types of Computers

  • Based on data type and size.

Page 12: Types of Computers

Analogue Computers

  • Measure continuous data (e.g., speed, temperature).

Digital Computers

  • Programmable, use electronic technology, and measure discrete data.

Page 13: Digital Computer Examples

  • General Purpose: Complex, used in various fields.

  • Special Purpose: Designed for specific tasks (e.g., accounting software).

Page 14: Hybrid Computers

  • Combine features of both analogue and digital computers.

Supercomputers

  • Largest, most powerful, used for specialized tasks (e.g., weather forecasting).

Page 15: Mainframe Computers

  • High-speed data processing, supports multiple users.

Mini Computers

  • Mid-range, slower than mainframes, used in organizations.

Page 16: Microcomputers

  • Small, personal computers designed for individual use.

Examples of Microcomputers

  • Desktop, laptop, tablets, smartphones.

This note summarizes the key concepts and historical developments