Digital Systems and CPU Basics

What is a digital system?

• A combination of digital hardware and software components that work together to transform data into a digital solution

• Only hardware components

• Only software components

• A type of analog system

Which of the following is NOT a hardware component of a digital system?

• Processor

• Memory

• Programs

• Keyboard

Fill in the blank: Software components include programs, apps, and ________ that control how the hardware works.

• operating systems

• keyboards

• monitors

• printers

What does CPU stand for?

• Central Processing Unit

• Central Power Unit

• Computer Processing Utility

• Central Peripheral Unit

According to Moore's Law, how often does the number of transistors normally double?

• Every year

• Every two years

• Every five years

• Every ten years

What is the function of cache memory in a CPU?

• Cache memory stores the most frequent instructions that the CPU is likely to use, saving time by preventing the CPU from having to get these instructions from RAM or secondary memory.

• Cache memory increases the size of the hard disk for more storage.

• Cache memory is used to permanently store user files and documents.

• Cache memory is responsible for controlling the input and output devices connected to the CPU.

A heat sink is a large metal object that conducts heat away from the CPU.

• True

• False

Clock speed is measured in which units?

• Volts

• Amperes

• Hertz

• Watts

Name the three things that can affect CPU performance.

• Clock speed, cache size, and cores.

• Screen size, battery life, and keyboard type.

• Hard drive capacity, monitor resolution, and mouse speed.

• USB ports, fan speed, and case color.

Match the CPU components with their correct functions:

• Holds the memory address of the data

• CU (Control Unit)

• Holds the actual data being moved in or out of memory

• MAR (Memory Address Register)

• Does calculations and logical decisions

• ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)

• Keeps track of the next instruction

• MDR (Memory Data Register)

• Controls the movement and timing of data inside the processor

• PC (Program Counter)