Introduction to Computer Engineering Notes

Introduction to Computer Engineering
  • Definition: A computer is a tool for solving various problems across fields such as scientific research, administration, and manufacturing. Its fundamental capability is performing arithmetic calculations.
Computer Architecture & Organization

  • Computer Architecture: Refers to attributes of a system observable to a programmer, impacting the logical execution of programs.

    • Examples: Instruction set, number of bits for data representation, I/O mechanisms, and memory addressing techniques.

  • Computer Organization: Involves operational units and interconnections realizing architectural specifications, often transparent to the programmer.

    • Examples: Control signals, interfaces with peripherals, memory technologies.
Structure & Function of Computers
  • Structure: How components are related.
  • Function: Operations performed by each component in the structure.
  • Basic Functions of a Computer:
    1. Data processing
    2. Data storage
    3. Data movement
    4. Control
  • Main Structural Components:
    1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
    2. Main Memory
    3. Input/Output
    4. System Interconnection
Computer Structure
  • Components:
    • Control Unit: Coordinates operations of the CPU.
    • Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Handles data processing functions.
    • Registers: Provide internal storage for the CPU.
    • Interconnection: Mechanism for communication among control units, ALU, and registers.
Processor Models
  • Intel Processor Example:
    • Core i7-2600K: 4/8 cores, Frequency 3.4/3.8 GHz, 8MB Cache, Price: $317
    • Core i5-2500K: 4/4 cores, Frequency 3.3/3.7 GHz, 6MB Cache, Price: $216
CPU Architectures
  • Von Neumann Architecture:
    • Stores program and data in the same memory.
    • Requires two clock cycles for executing instructions.
  • Harvard Architecture:
    • Uses separate memory for instructions and data.
    • Allows simultaneous operations for instruction fetches and data transfers.
CPU and Memory Interaction
  • Registers:
    • Memory Address Register (MAR): Holds memory addresses.
    • Memory Buffer Register (MBR): Holds data to be written/read.
    • I/O Address Register (I/OAR): Specifies I/O devices.
    • I/O Buffer Register (I/OBR): Transfers data between I/O modules and CPU.
Bus Interconnection
  • Definition: A communication pathway connecting devices, allowing transmission of signals.
  • Types of Lines:
    • Data Lines: For moving data (width of the bus: 32, 64, 128+ lines).
    • Address Lines: Designate the destination/source of data.
    • Control Lines: Manage access to the data and address lines.
Control Signals Examples
  • Signals include:
    • Memory Write: Write data to a memory location.
    • Memory Read: Read data from a memory location.
    • I/O Operations: Read/write data to/from devices.
Memory Hierarchy

  • Design Constraints: Considerations include capacity, speed, and cost.

    • Access Time vs Cost Trade-off:
    • Faster access costs more per bit.
    • Greater capacity reduces cost per bit but slows access time.

  • Hierarchy Levels:

    1. Registers (Fastest, Smallest Capacity)
    2. Cache
    3. Main Memory
    4. Magnetic Disk/Outboard Storage (Slowest, Largest Capacity)

  • Conclusion: A balance among memory characteristics ensures efficient data handling and system performance.