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Computer Architecture Notes

The document provides an overview of computer architecture, focusing on the CPU, its components, and the Von Neumann architecture. It explains the fetch-decode-execute cycle, instruction sets, and embedded systems, along with their advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, it covers data storage types, including primary and secondary memory, RAM variations, and different storage devices like magnetic, optical, and solid-state storage.

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HAMMAD UR REHMAN
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1 views4 pages

Computer Architecture Notes

The document provides an overview of computer architecture, focusing on the CPU, its components, and the Von Neumann architecture. It explains the fetch-decode-execute cycle, instruction sets, and embedded systems, along with their advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, it covers data storage types, including primary and secondary memory, RAM variations, and different storage devices like magnetic, optical, and solid-state storage.

Uploaded by

HAMMAD UR REHMAN
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer Architecture & Storage Notes

Definition of CPU

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer that carries out instructions from programs by

performing basic arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output tasks.

Von Neumann Architecture

It is a computer architecture that uses a single memory for both data and instructions. It consists of a CPU, memory,

input/output devices, and a control unit connected via buses.

CPU Components (Short Definitions)

ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): Performs calculations and logical operations.

CU (Control Unit): Directs operations in the CPU and controls data flow.

IAS (Immediate Access Store): The memory where data and instructions are stored temporarily.

CPU Registers Functions

CIR (Current Instruction Register): Holds the current instruction being executed.

ACC (Accumulator): Stores results of calculations from the ALU.

MAR (Memory Address Register): Stores the address of the memory location to be accessed.

MDR (Memory Data Register): Temporarily holds data read from or written to memory.

PC (Program Counter): Keeps track of the next instruction to be executed.

System Buses Definitions

Address Bus: Carries memory addresses from the CPU to other parts.

Data Bus: Carries actual data between CPU, memory, and devices.

Control Bus: Sends control signals (e.g., read/write commands).

Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle (Simple Explanation)

1. Fetch: The CPU gets the instruction from memory.

2. Decode: It understands what the instruction means.


Computer Architecture & Storage Notes

3. Execute: It carries out the instruction.

Instruction Set (To the Point)

The instruction set is a group of commands a CPU can understand and execute, like add, move, jump, etc.

Embedded Systems (To the Point)

An embedded system is a computer system designed to do one specific task within a larger device, like a washing

machine or ATM.

Advantages of Embedded Systems

1. Low cost

2. Fast performance

3. Small size

4. Energy efficient

5. Reliable

Disadvantages of Embedded Systems

1. Hard to upgrade

2. Limited storage

3. Fixed function

4. Debugging is difficult

5. Can't run complex tasks

Data Storage (Definition)

Data storage refers to saving digital information in a device for future use.

Primary vs. Secondary Memory (To the Point)

Primary Memory: Fast, temporary storage (e.g., RAM) used by the CPU.
Computer Architecture & Storage Notes

Secondary Memory: Permanent storage (e.g., HDD, SSD) for long-term data.

RAM and Its Types (To the Point)

RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary memory used while the computer is on.

DRAM (Dynamic RAM): Slower, needs refreshing.

SRAM (Static RAM): Faster, no need for refreshing.

RAM vs ROM / DRAM vs SRAM (Summary)

RAM vs ROM:

Volatility: RAM is volatile, ROM is non-volatile

Use: RAM is for temporary data, ROM is for permanent instructions

Editable: RAM is editable, ROM is not (or limited)

DRAM vs SRAM:

Speed: DRAM is slower, SRAM is faster

Cost: DRAM is cheaper, SRAM is more expensive

Usage: DRAM is used for main memory, SRAM is used for cache memory

Secondary and Offline Storage (Definitions)

Secondary Storage: Internal permanent storage (e.g., hard drives).

Offline Storage: External storage used when needed (e.g., USB drive).

Storage Devices Explanation

Magnetic Storage: Uses magnetic fields to store data on spinning disks.

Examples: Hard Disk Drive (HDD), magnetic tapes.

Pros: Large storage, low cost.

Cons: Slower, more prone to damage.

Optical Storage: Uses lasers to read/write data on discs.


Computer Architecture & Storage Notes

Examples: CD, DVD, Blu-ray.

Pros: Cheap, portable.

Cons: Limited storage, slower access, easily scratched.

Solid-State Storage: Uses flash memory (no moving parts).

Examples: SSD, USB, SD card.

Pros: Very fast, durable.

Cons: More expensive per GB.

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