Ch 25 - Internal Computer Hardware

Processor – Acts as the brain of a computer, is responsible for processing instructions from programs

Main Memory – Includes Ram and ROM, responsible for storing program instructions and frequently used data. It helps the processor to execute instructions quickly since it is much faster than secondary storage (hard drive etc.)

RAM – Stands for Random Access Memory, a type of fast main memory used to store data and programs the computer is currently using.

Fetch-Execute Cycle – A continuous cycle performed by the processor, consisting of three stages: fetch, decode and execute.

ROM – Stands for Read Only Memory which cannot be modified. Useful for storing fixed sequences of instructions like a computer’s startup routine.

Addressable memory – The concept of storing data and instructions in a memory with discrete, unique addresses

Buses – A series of parallel wires that connects internal components of a computer system

Data Bus – Sends data and instructions to and from the different components of the computer system. Increasing the width of the bus increases the volume of data that can be transferred over the bus at any one time.

Address Bus – Used to transport memory addresses, specifying where data is to be sent to or retrieved from. Increasing the width increases the range of addresses that it can specify.

Adding a single wire doubles the number of addressable memory locations

Control Bus – Used to carry control signals that regulate the operation of the computer system. It also carries the computer’s clock signal

Input/Output (I/O) Controllers – Pieces of hardware that control the communication of data between the processor and external hardware devices, such as keyboards.