Fundamentals of Computer Architecture

What is the primary function of the CPU?

• To store data permanently

• The primary function of the CPU is to execute instructions and process data.

• To manage network connections

• To provide power to the computer

Define the term 'bus' in computer architecture.

• A bus is a type of software used for managing computer memory.

• A bus is a hardware component that stores data permanently.

• A bus is a protocol for internet communication.

• A bus is a communication system that transfers data between components in a computer.

What are the main components of a computer system?

• Operating system and software applications

• The main components of a computer system are CPU, memory (RAM), storage, and input/output devices.

• Motherboard, power supply, and graphics card

• Network cables and routers

Explain the difference between RAM and ROM.

• RAM is non-volatile and used for temporary storage; ROM is volatile and used for permanent storage.

• RAM is used for permanent storage; ROM is used for temporary storage.

• RAM and ROM are both volatile and serve the same purpose in a computer.

• RAM is volatile and used for temporary storage; ROM is non-volatile and used for permanent storage.

What is the purpose of the ALU in a CPU?

• To control the flow of electricity in the CPU.

• The purpose of the ALU in a CPU is to perform arithmetic and logical operations.

• To manage input and output devices.

• To store data temporarily during processing.

Describe the fetch-decode-execute cycle.

• The cycle consists of storing data, processing it, and then fetching new instructions.

• The cycle is limited to executing instructions without fetching.

• The fetch-decode-execute cycle consists of fetching an instruction from memory, decoding it to understand the operation, and executing the instruction.

• The cycle involves only fetching data from the hard drive.

What is cache memory and why is it important?

• Cache memory is a type of permanent storage for data.

• Cache memory is used to store all data permanently.

• Cache memory is a low-speed storage area for infrequently accessed data.

• Cache memory is a high-speed storage area that temporarily holds frequently accessed data to improve processing speed.

Differentiate between RISC and CISC architectures.

• RISC and CISC both use the same number of instructions but differ in execution speed.

• CISC is designed for high-speed processing, while RISC focuses on low power consumption.

• RISC uses a small set of simple instructions for efficiency, while CISC uses a larger set of complex instructions for reduced program size.

• RISC uses a larger set of complex instructions, while CISC uses a small set of simple instructions.

What role does the motherboard play in a computer?

• The motherboard stores all the data of a computer.

• The motherboard connects and allows communication between all components of a computer.

• The motherboard is responsible for powering the computer.

• The motherboard acts as a cooling system for the CPU.

Explain the concept of virtual memory.

• Virtual memory is a memory management technique that uses disk space to extend RAM, allowing for larger applications to run.

• Virtual memory is a technique that compresses RAM to save space.

• Virtual memory is a method of storing data on a USB drive for faster access.

• Virtual memory is a type of physical memory found in computers.