Systems Architecture Flashcards
(54 cards)
What is a computer?
A computer is a machine that processes data
What is the purpose of a computer?
The purpose of a computer is to take data, process it , then output it
What is a computer system?
A computer system consists of hardware and software that work together to process data (complete tasks)
Define hardware
Hardware is the physical things that make up your computer system, like the CPU, motherboard, monitor and printer
Define software
Software is the programs or applications that a computer system runs
Example: an operating system, a word processor or video game
What are embedded systems?
Embedded systems are computers built into other devices, like dishwashers, microwaves and TVs. They are usually dedicated to one purpose
What are embedded systems often used as?
Embedded systems are often used as control systems- they monitor and control machinery in order to reach a desired result
Define embedded system
Embedded systems are computers inside a larger system
What does CPU stand for?
Central Processing Unit
What are the three main parts of the CPU?
The control unit (CU)
The arithmetic logic unit (ALU)
The cache
What is Von Neumann architecture?
The Von Neumann architecture describes a system where the cpu runs programs stored in memory. Programs consist of instructions and data which are stored in memory addresses.
What is the purpose of the program counter (PC)?
Program counter holds the memory address of the instructions for each cycle
Holds the address of the next instruction to be executed in memory
What is the purpose of the accumulator?
The accumulator stores intermediate results of calculations in the alu.
What is the purpose of the MAR?
The memory address register holds any memory address about to be used by the CPU. The address might point to data or a CPU instruction.
What is the purpose of the MDR?
The memory data register holds the actual data or instruction. This may have been fetched from memory or be waiting to be written to memory
What is the purpose of memory?
The memory holds the program instructions and the program data.
What happens in the fetch stage?
Copy memory address from the program counter to the MAR
Copy the instruction stored in the MAR address to the MDR
Increment the program counter to point to the next instruction ready for the next cycle
Gets data from RAM then brings it back to the cpu
What’s happens in the decode stage?
The instruction in the MDR is decoded by the CU. The CU may then prepare for the next step
What happens in the execute stage?
The instruction is performed.
What is the purpose of the cpu?
To process instructions by following the fetch, decode and execute cycle
What is the cache?
Provides fast access to regularly used instructions and data
What are the names of the registers?
Accumulator
Memory address register
Program counter
Memory data register
What are registers?
Tiny, incredibly fast pieces of onboard memory inside the cpu. All have a function specific to it.
What does Von Neumann consist of?
Control unit
Arithmetic and logic unit
Memory unit
Inputs and outputs
