Topic 2 - Computer Organization - FDE and memory - Flashcards
What is the CPU's role in a computer system?
The CPU, also known as the Central Processing Unit, acts as the "brain" of the computer, processing all instructions as binary code.
How does the CPU execute instructions?
The CPU follows the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle, where it fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and then executes them.
What type of code does the CPU process, and how?
The CPU processes instructions in binary code by interpreting them as a series of on/off signals.
What operations does the CPU perform?
The CPU performs arithmetic, logical, and input/output operations.
What is the relationship between the CPU and RAM?
The CPU is directly connected to RAM (Random Access Memory), where it accesses data and instructions for processing.
Explain the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle.
The Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle is the process by which the CPU retrieves instructions from memory, decodes them, and then executes them.
List the steps involved in the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle.
The Program Counter (PC) sends the address to be checked to the Memory Address Register (MAR).
MAR sends the address to RAM.
RAM sends the data at the address to the Memory Data Register (MDR).
MDR sends the data to the Current Instruction Register (CIR) for decoding.
The decoded instructions are passed to the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), where operations are performed.
ALU may give further instructions, and the process repeats.
How is processor speed measured, and what does it signify?
Processor speed is measured by the number of Fetch-Decode-Execute cycles per second, with higher speeds indicating faster processing capabilities.
What components constitute the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle?
The Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle involves the Program Counter (PC), Memory Address Register (MAR), Random Access Memory (RAM), Memory Data Register (MDR), Current Instruction Register (CIR), Control Unit (CU), and Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU).
How does the number of processor cores relate to the number of Arithmetic Logic Units (ALUs)?
The number of processor cores is equal to the number of ALUs, as each core typically contains its own ALU for processing instructions simultaneously.