Computer Architecture Flashcards

1. What are the main components of the CPU?

• Control Unit (CU): Directs how data moves.

• Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs calculations and logic operations.

• Registers: Super-fast storage for temporary values.

• Cache: Small, very fast memory storing frequently used instructions.

• Buses: Highways that transport data between components.

2. What are the four steps of the Instruction Cycle?

1. Fetch – Get an instruction from memory.

2. Decode – Understand what to do.

3. Execute – Perform the instruction.

4. Store – Save the result.

3. What is Pipelining?

• A technique where the CPU starts executing a new instruction before the previous one finishes.

• Like an assembly line: one stage fetches while another decodes, etc.

4. Why is Cache Memory important?

• It is faster than RAM and stores frequently used data.

• Reduces the time the CPU spends fetching data.

5. What are Buses in a CPU?

• Address Bus – Carries memory addresses.

• Data Bus – Transfers actual data.

• Control Bus – Sends control signals.

6. What is the difference between RAM and Cache?

• RAM (Random Access Memory): Larger but slower, stores active programs and data.

• Cache: Smaller but much faster, stores frequently accessed instructions.

7. What are the advantages of Multicore Processors?

• Can execute multiple instructions at once.

• Improves performance for multitasking.

• Reduces power consumption compared to a single fast CPU.

8. How does the ALU work?

• The Arithmetic Logic Unit performs mathematical and logical operations.

• It handles addition, subtraction, comparisons (greater than, less than, etc.).

9. What is the role of the Control Unit (CU)?

• Directs the flow of data inside the CPU.

• Tells other components what to do and when.

10. Why is Cache Memory integrated into the CPU?

• To reduce the time needed to access frequently used data.

• If it were placed in RAM, it would be much slower.

11. How does a 64-bit processor handle a 32-bit system?

• It can still run 32-bit programs using a compatibility mode.

• A 64-bit processor can address more memory than a 32-bit one.

12. What is the difference between a CPU and a GPU?

• CPU (Central Processing Unit): General-purpose, optimized for a variety of tasks.

• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Optimized for parallel processing, ideal for graphics and AI tasks.

13. What is the role of the Memory Address Register (MAR)?

• Holds the address of the location in memory where data is being read from or written to.

14. What is the function of the Memory Data Register (MDR)?

• Temporarily holds data being transferred to/from memory.

15. What is Virtual Memory?

• A technique where the OS uses part of the hard drive as extra RAM.

• Slower than real RAM but prevents crashes when RAM is full.

16. What are Flip-Flops (Latches)?

• Basic storage elements used in registers and memory.

• Stores one bit of data (0 or 1).

17. What are the types of Secondary Storage?

• HDD (Hard Disk Drive) – Mechanical, slower, cheaper.

• SSD (Solid-State Drive) – Faster, more durable.

• Optical (CD/DVD/Blu-ray) – Used for media storage.

18. What is the role of an Operating System (OS) in memory management?

• Allocates RAM to running programs.

• Uses virtual memory when RAM is full.

• Prevents programs from interfering with each other.

19. Why is Persistent Storage needed?

• Stores data permanently (unlike RAM, which is wiped when power is off).

• Examples: Hard drives, SSDs, Flash drives.

20. What are the benefits of a Multiplexer?

• Allows multiple signals to be sent over one channel.

• Reduces hardware complexity.

💡 Memorization Tip:
Try using the Feynman Technique – explain each concept to yourself like you’re teaching a 5-year-old. If you struggle, break it down further! 🎓

These flashcards should help a lot! Let me know if you want any adjustments. 😊💖