Harvard/Von nuemann Flashcards
(11 cards)
What is the function of the Control Unit (CU) in Von Neumann architecture?
Controls the operation of the processor and its components, retrieves and executes instructions, generates timing signals
The CU is essential for managing the flow of data and instructions within the computer.
What operations does the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) perform?
Carries out arithmetic and logic operations such as:
* Addition
* Subtraction
* Multiplication
* Division
* Comparisons
The ALU is a critical component for performing calculations and making logical decisions.
What are the three types of buses in Von Neumann architecture?
The three types of buses are:
* Data bus
* Address bus
* Control bus
Buses are communication systems that transfer data between components.
What is the role of memory (RAM) in Von Neumann architecture?
It serves as a central storage location for both data and the instructions that the CPU needs to execute
Memory is a linear array of bytes that enables the CPU to access necessary data quickly.
What distinguishes Harvard architecture from Von Neumann architecture?
Harvard architecture has separate memory units for instructions and data
This separation allows for simultaneous access, improving system performance.
How does the use of separate buses in Harvard architecture benefit performance?
Allows for concurrent access to instructions and data, preventing interference
This design significantly enhances the efficiency of data processing.
What is pipelining in the context of Harvard architecture?
While an instruction is executed, the next can be decoded and the subsequent one fetched
Pipelining increases the throughput of instruction processing.
What is the function of cache memory in Harvard architecture?
Stores frequently used data and instructions, providing high performance close to the CPU
Cache memory reduces access time and improves overall system speed.
What is the advantage of multiple cores in a processor?
Each core acts as a separate processing unit, allowing for parallel processing
Multiple cores can significantly improve the performance of computational tasks.
Fill in the blank: The Control Unit (CU) generates _______ signals to control the computer’s operations.
[timing]
Fill in the blank: In Harvard architecture, instructions and data can be accessed _______.
[concurrently]