1.1.2 Flashcards
(19 cards)
Explain the characteristics of RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer).
- Have fewer instructions than CISC processor; their instructions are simple and can be executed in one clock cycle
- Complex tasks are achieved by combining several simple instructions; RISC processor more efficient at simple/straightforward tasks.
- RISC uses software with simple instructions; translating from high level language to assembly code is complicated by large number of instructions
- Smaller and less power therefor no cooling system needed
- Used in smartphones and tablets as not complex processes
Explain the characteristics of CISC (Complex instruction set computer).
- Have more instructions then CISC processor; complex instructions normally executed in more then one clock cycle
- More efficient with complex tasks as they have the complex instruction set for them
- Emphasis on building complex instructions straight into hardware; therefore translating from high level into assembly code is straight forward
- Larger with more internal components therefore using more power and heat; cooling needed
- Many desktops and laptops use CISC
What is a G.P.U?
- Form of a co-processor
- Parallel architecture allows parallel processing
- Processes large blocks of visual data
- More cores then CPU
- Machine learning, oil exploration, image processing, and financial transactions
What is multicore?
When a processor has more then one processor incorporated into a single chip
What is parallel processing?
When more then one processor is used to carry execute a program simultaneously.
What is SIMD?
- Multiple data have same instructions but different data outputs.
- Used when large sets of data need to be manipulated under the same criteria.
What is MIMD?
- Multiple processors have independent instruction and data executed simultaneously
What is virtual storage and its advantage?
- Combining of physical storage devices into a virtual storage device.
- Data storage can be increased and decreased at request
What is software?
Actual programs or coded instructions that make the computer run.
What is hardware?
Hardware is physical parts of a computer system.
What is systems software?
Needed to carry out tasks to operate the hardware.
What is segmentation?
Dividing of memory in logical units such as code and data.
What is paging?
Dividing of memory into physical units linked with implementation of virtual memory
What is disk thrashing?
Frequent use of virtual memory slowing down the system.
What is a page table?
Used to keep track of the start address of each page; if a page is needed from main memory, it will be brought in from hard drive before program execution can continue.
Explain the steps of the interrupt service routine.
- Current instruction execution is finished
- Program counter contents stored in memory
- Register contents stored in memory
- Interrupt number examined to identify source
- Program counter loaded up with start address of interrupt service routine
- Interrupt service routine is executed
- Contents of registers from original task restored into memory
- Program counter contents from original task restored
- Interrupted task continues
What does a software driver do?
Gives details to operating system of how to communicate with a specific hardware device
What is bytecode?
An intermediate language that can be executed on any computer set up with a virtual machine
Explain advantages of using reusuable components.
- Modules already tested (1 – AO1.2) so more reliable programs (1 – AO2.1).
- Less development time (1 – AO1.2) as programs
can be shorter (1 – AO2.1) and modules can be
shared (1 – AO2.1)
