4.7.1 Internal Hardware

• What is the main purpose of the processor in a computer?

  Handles instructions from user, hardware, and software
• What does RAM stand for?

  Random Access Memory
• What is the role of main memory in a computer?

  Stores data not currently being executed
• What is the function of the address bus?

  Carries the memory address of the next instruction
• How does the data bus function in a computer system?

  Carries data to and from memory during execution
• What is the purpose of the control bus?

  Sends control signals to registers and buses
• What do I/O controllers allow in a computer system?

  Connect additional devices to the computer
• What is the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory?

  Volatile memory loses data when powered off
• What does ROM stand for?

  Read Only Memory
• What is addressable memory?

  Memory made up of addressable cells storing data
• How is memory organized in a computer?

  Using addresses to systematically store data
• What is the function of the address bus?

  Carries memory addresses from processor to memory
• What is the significance of the width of a data bus?

  Greater width allows more data transmission
• How does the control bus ensure data integrity?

  Synchronizes signals and controls data access
• What is the role of I/O controllers in a computer?

  Translate signals from devices for the processor
• What is the difference between von Neumann and Harvard architectures?

  Von Neumann uses same bus for data and instructions
• Where is Harvard architecture typically used?

  In embedded systems with specific uses
• What is Digital Signal Processing (DSP)?

  Compresses real-world data for faster processing
• What is a bottleneck in a computer system?

  Too much data sent at once causing crashes
• What are the main components of a computer system?

  • Processor
  • Main Memory (RAM and ROM)
  • Address Bus
  • Data Bus
  • Control Bus
  • I/O Controllers
• What are the characteristics of RAM and ROM?

  RAM:

  • Volatile memory
  • Temporary storage
  • Fast access

  
  

  ROM:

  • Non-volatile memory
  • Read-only
  • Stores BIOS settings
• What are the functions of the buses in a computer?

  Address Bus:

  • Carries memory addresses

  
  

  Data Bus:

  • Carries data to/from memory

  
  

  Control Bus:

  • Sends control signals to registers
• What is the concept of addressable memory?

  • Memory organized in addressable cells
  • Systematic storage using addresses
  • Memory map shows stored programs
• What are the differences between von Neumann and Harvard architectures?

  Von Neumann:

  • Same bus for data and instructions

  
  

  Harvard:

  • Separate buses for data and instructions
  • Faster execution
• What are the advantages of using I/O controllers?

  • Allow connection of additional devices
  • Translate signals for processor compatibility
  • Buffer data between processor and devices