1.1.2: Types of processor

• What are the 2 main types of processor

  • RISC
  • CISC
• Describe RISC processors

  • are used in modern smartphones and tablets
  • this type of processor can carry out simple instructions quickly
  • several instructions are needed to carry out basic tasks
  • e.g: adding together two numbers
• Describe CICS processors

  • used in desktop and laptop computers
  • this type of processor can process more complex instructions
  • e.g: a single instruction can involve loading two values calculating their sum and storing the result back in memory
• Compare RISC and CISC

  RISC:

  • Instruction set made of a small amount of simple, fixed length instructions
  • 1 instruction executed per clock cycle
  • limited addressing modes
  • Emphasis software over hardware
  • uses a lot of RAM, causing system bottlenecks

  CISC:

  • Instruction set made of a large number of complex, variable length instructions
  • Instructions take several clock cycles to be executed
  • compound addressing modes
  • emphasis hardware over software
  • makes efficient use of RAM
• define a GPU

  • a separate, dedicated processor
  • designed to free up the main processor to handle other tasks
  • designed for parallel processing
• what are some uses of a GPU

  • machine learning
  • graphics
  • video rendering
  • financial/ weather modelling