CompSci - Hardware & Communication Flashcards
(9 cards)
Main Components of Computer Architecture
CPU - Processes and directs instructions across components
RAM - Temporary, faster storage for programs that are in use
Secondary Storage - Larger but slower data storage
I/O - Allows the user to interact with the computer and communicate
Motherboard - Facilitates communication between components
GPU - Renders visual graphics
Parallel Processing
Dividing tasks across several cores of the CPU for improved processing speed
Some modules of a program may need another to function, so not everything can be processed parallelly.
Software needs to be compatible.
Several cores may not be available.
Software optimised for parallel processing may be less efficient that if it was sequential due to extra functions.
Voice Input For Command Systems
Allows computers to be cotrolled using voice commands
Intuitive, fast, hands-free control
Voice Input For Vocab. Dictation System
Converts spoken language into written text
Typing via speech
Voice Input For Voice Print Security
Identifies a person’s voice to authenticate them by biometrics.
Analyses vocal patterns and pitch
Applications For Network Connection
Wireless communication
Cloud file access
Web browsing
Navigation
Hardware Required For A Wireless Connection
Routers direct data between local networks and the internet, act as checkpoints across a packet’s journey between devices using trace tables
Contemporary Wireless Technologies
Wi-Fi - Wireless Fidelity used for wireless applications
Bluetooth - Short-range personal network used to connect peripherals
NFC - Near-Field Communication very short range used for contactless payment
No of Cores vs Software Parallelisation Effects
Lower parallelisation fractions don’t get much benefit from more cores
Higher parallelisation fractions get more benefit from more cores.
Overall, more software parallelisation will improve speed the most.
