Computing hardware: CPU, Virtual memory, cache, RAM, ROM, Flash
Give four examples of secondary storage media.
(1) External hard disk drive, (2) DVD, (3) Solid state hard drive, (4) USB flash memory stick
List two operations carried out by the Arithmetic Logic Unit.
1) The CPU carries out processing on the computer, it does this by fetching and executing instructions. 2) The ALU also carries out comparisons which answers questions.
Briefly explain how a computer makes use of RAM.
A computer uses RAM to store programs while they are being executed.
What led to the convergence of mobiles and computers?
Advances in processor technology , mobile internet access and low power, high capacity storage such as solid-state drives.
What is the speed of the fetch - execute cycle determined by?
An electronic clock chip. Its measured in cycles per second, known as herz (Hz).
Data is written from memory to secondary storage when data is no longer being actively used, for retrieval at a later time. Can you name some forms of secondary storage?
DVD, quite fast. Flash drive, fastest. External hard drive, fast. Magnetic tape, slow. Solid state drive, fast. Cloud storage.
Which access is faster RAM or virtual memory?
Data is passed between RAM and virtual memory - access to virtual memory is slower than to RAM.
Describe what is meant by a dual core CPU. State a possible benefits of its use.
If it has two processors, it can carry out two instructions at the same time. It means the computer could run programs faster.
Where is data that's in use stored?
In the Cache memory to make access to it faster.
Explain the steps involved in the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle.
In the fetch step, instructions are retrieved from memory. The CPU uses the Program Counter to keep track of where it can find the next instruction. Once an instruction is loaded into the CPU it works out what the instruction means, this is the decode step. Finally the computer carries out the instruction in the execute step.
What affects does adding RAM have?
It reduces the use of virtual memory and improves performance of the computer.
Where is all data stored?
It's stored in RAM, as binary numbers.
What's the problem with Cache Memory?
It's very expensive.
What is Virtual memory?
Its part of the hard drive used as an extension of RAM.
What type of memory is Flash memory?
ROM. Flash memory, is used as a portable medium for storing, and transferring data.
State some points about RAM!
Random Access Memory - VOLATILE - It can be accessed and changed by the computer at any time - It contains the OS - Has a large capacity - It stores programs and data being used by the computer.
State some points about ROM!
Read Only Memory - NON VOLATILE (data is retained when there is no power) - Programmed during computer manufacture - Requires instructions and data required to start up the computer - Contains the boot program - Small capacity.
What is the purpose of the Cache memory?
The CPU cannot access main memory at the same speed as the processor clock chip; transferring data from the main memory causes significant delays. Cache memory has access times similar to the CPU but is expensive.
State the purpose of the CPU.
The CPU, carries out processing in the computer, it does this by fetching and executing instructions.
Explain the function of the Control Unit.
The Control Unit uses electrical signals to control the flow of data within the CPU.
What are multi-core processes and what are their pros and cons?
They use multiple processors's working together. The processors can all fetch, decode and execute instructions at the same time. The pro is that more data can be processed simultaneously! The con is that more complicated operating systems are needed to manage them!
Describe what is meant by the term 5GHZ.
This is the clock speed of the processor. 5GHZ means (5 billion) cycles per second.
When is virtual memory used?
When the computer does not have enough RAM to hold all the data and programs required.
Is a memory card an input or output device or neither?
neither.
