Computer architecture
- 2. CPU At the heart of every computer is the CPU (Central Processing Unit) This is the 'brain' of the computer. It refers to that part of the processor which 'processes' the data and instructions.
- 3. The main part of the CPU • The ALU (Arithmetic and Logic Unit) - which performs the calculations on the data. • The Control Unit - which controls all operations inside the computer. • A register is a place where a single item of data can be stored. (some memory)
- 4. • All computers will have at least one input device (eg keyboard, mouse), and at least one output device (eg monitor). • All computers have some memory. Both the program a computer is running as well as the data are all stored in memory. (Eg When you write a letter using a word processor then both the word processing program and the letter are stored in memory).
- 5. Random Access Memory (RAM) This is the type of memory used for temporarily storing programs and data Memory consists of a large number of storage locations in which data can be stored. Each location is identified by an address.
- 6. Memory consists of a large number of storage locations in which data can be stored. Each location is identified by an address. Data will need to be moved between several of these elements. The path along which data moves is called a data bus.
- 7. Data bus Data will need to be moved between several of these elements. The path along which data moves is called a data bus.
- 8. Address Bus When data is saved to (or loaded from) memory, the address of the store location at which it is to be stored (or loaded) must also be sent. The address of data always travels along an address bus.
- 9. Control Unit The Control Unit sends and receives signals from all parts of the computer which makes sure that all processes take place at the right time and in the correct order. These signals travel along a control bus.
- 10. Question Jan 2009 • Describe the main functions of the following components of a computer: A) Control unit B) ALU C) Register D) Data Bus E) Control Bus F) Address Bus “Single word or short phrased answers are not acceptable”