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Computer Architectures

by: ichiboi

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8 views

Computer Architectures

by: ichiboi

Uploaded by

cjnamoco623
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer Architectures

Computer architecture defines the fundamental design and organization of a computer


system. It outlines how hardware components interact and execute instructions.

Key Components of Computer Architecture

1. Control Unit (CU):


o Fetches instructions from memory.

o Decodes instructions to determine the required operations.

o Coordinates the activities of other components to execute instructions.

2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):


o Performs arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication,
division).

o Performs logical operations (AND, OR, NOT).

3. Memory Unit:
o Stores data and instructions.

o Types:

 Primary Memory: Fast but volatile (RAM).


 Secondary Memory: Slow but non-volatile (Hard Disk, SSD).
4. Input/Output (I/O) Units:
o Devices used to interact with the computer.

o Examples: Keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer.

Types of Computer Architectures

1. Von Neumann Architecture:


o Single shared memory for both instructions and data.

o Sequential execution of instructions.

o Most common architecture used in personal computers.


2. Harvard Architecture:
o Separate memory units for instructions and data.

o Can fetch instructions and data simultaneously.

o Used in specialized systems like microcontrollers and digital signal


processors.

3. Modified Harvard Architecture:


o Combines features of Von Neumann and Harvard architectures.

o Separate memory units for instructions and data, but allows some shared
memory.

o Commonly used in modern microprocessors.

Key Architectural Concepts

 Instruction Set Architecture (ISA): Defines the set of instructions a processor


can understand and execute.
 Memory Hierarchy: Organizes memory into levels with different speeds and
capacities.
 Pipeline: Breaks down instruction execution into stages to improve performance.
 Parallel Processing: Uses multiple processors to execute instructions
simultaneously.
 Cache Memory: High-speed memory that stores frequently accessed data.

Future Trends in Computer Architecture

 Quantum Computing: Exploits quantum mechanics for massive computational


power.
 Neuromorphic Computing: Inspired by the human brain, aims to mimic
biological neural networks.
 AI-Accelerated Computing: Leverages AI to optimize hardware and software.
By understanding computer architecture, you can gain insights into how computers
work, troubleshoot issues, and design efficient systems.
Would you like to delve deeper into a specific aspect of computer architecture?

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