5.6 (a) Flashcards

1
Q

List the main components of a basic computer system?

A
  1. Input Section
  2. Output Section
  3. CPU (Central Processing Unit)
  4. Memory Section
  5. Interconnecting Buses
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2
Q

List the types of inputs and outputs of a computer?

A

Inputs:

  1. Analog - Smooth changing voltage
  2. Digital -Series of high low level voltages (1 or 0)
  3. Discrete - on/off condition (closure of relay)

Outputs:

  1. DA converter (Digital to Analogue)
  2. Digital Transmitter (conversion then transmit digital bus)
  3. binary (requires dimultiplexer)
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3
Q

Which data format does a computer use?

A

Binary

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4
Q

How is analogue data converted for use in a computer?

A

an A/D converter

Analogue to Digital Converter

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5
Q

How is serial data converted for use in a computer?

A

A multiplexer converts it into a ‘Word’

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6
Q

In a computer what do the following terms mean:

a) Word
b) Byte
c) Bit
d) BITE

A

a) A complete unit of binary information or data is called a word
b) A Byte may be a word or only part of a word. 8 bits = 1 Byte
c) A bit is a numerical value either 1 or 0
d) BITE = Built in Test Equipment

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7
Q

A memory capacity of 64k = _________

A

65,536 bits

comma

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8
Q

Describe an Address Bus?

A

16 mono-directional lines. The lines originate from CPU and are connected to the memory and I/O ports.

Address is where to deliver it, content is data to be delivered

Series of high lows on these 16 mono-directional lines tells where address is

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9
Q

Where does an Address Bus originate from?

A

The CPU

16 mono-directional lines

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10
Q

Describe a Data Bus?

A

8 bi-directional lines and facilitates transmission of data between CPU ,memory and I/O ports

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11
Q

What does a Data Bus interconnect?

A

CPU memory and I/O

transfer of data on 8 bi-directional lines

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12
Q

Describe a Control Bus?

A

10 - 12 mono and bi directional lines

4 functions:

  1. Memory
  2. Input - Output
  3. MPU
  4. Utilities such as clock
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13
Q

List the four functions of a Control Bus?

A
  1. Memory Synchronisation
  2. Input - Output
  3. MPU (Memory Protectional Unit)
  4. Utilities such as a clock
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14
Q

What is meant by mono-directional?

A

One direction

Address bus identifies addresses using 16 mono-directional lines

Control bus uses 10 - 12 mono and Bi directional lines

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15
Q

Describe the role of a CPU, identifying its main parts?

A

CPU = Central Processing Unit

Main part of computer

Register Section

ALU (Arithmetic/logic unit)

Control Unit

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16
Q

What is:

a) Software
b) Hardware
c) Firmware
d) Machine Code

A

a) Software - program which is a list of instructions
b) Hardware - pile of electronical and mechanical components
c) Firmware = Un-alterable software
d) Machine Code = ?

17
Q

What would be stored in firmware?

A

Firmware = Un-alterable software

example = Operating program

18
Q

What is meant by non-volatile memory?

A

Non-volatile memory is used to store programs

I.E if computer turned off, non-volatile memory data is not lost upon start up again

19
Q

What is meant by volatile memory?

A

Volatile memory is temporary data

I.E When computer is turned off, data is lost upon start up

20
Q

Identify the types of memory that are non-volatile?

A
21
Q

Which requires most power, SRAM or DRAM?

A

DRAM = Dynamic Random Access Memory - low power require with high memory capacity

SRAM = Static Random Access Memory - high power but twice as fast as DRAM

SRAM requires the most power

22
Q

Compare EPROM and EAROM?

A

EPROM = Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

Whole software usually erased and new written in - Usually by UV light 5 - 20 mins

EAROM = Electrically Alterable Read Only Memory

can be re programmed without sun light in situ etc

individual cells erased and reprogramed

23
Q

Why are disks and tapes ‘‘Secondary Memory Systems?’’

A

They contain magnetic surface recording media and are generally slower mediums of memory but large storage capacity

24
Q

Differentiate between primary and secondary memory?

A

Primary memory = fastest memories made of semiconductor IC’s eg ferrite cores

Seconadary memories = Mass storage devices + magnetic surface recording media