System Architecture and Memory

System Architecture and Memory

1. Processor

   • CPU
     • ALU
       • The ALU performs all of the arithmetic and logical operations of the CPU, including Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction
     • CU
       • The Control Unit transmits control signals to other components of the CPU.
       • The Control Unit follows the fetch-decode-execute cycle to execute program instructions.
       • There are two main components of the Control Unit:
         • The clock, which coordinates the CPU's activity.
         • The decoder, which decodes program instructions.
     • Registers
       • Registers are tiny amounts of super-quick memory within the CPU. They are used to hold information needed for the CPU to work. Each register holds a specific piece of information.
     • Cashe
       • Cache memory is a small amount of very fast memory inside the CPU.
     • Cores
   • GPU
   • A processor is a special component that processes data and instructions to control other components within the computer.

2. Input/Output Devices

   • I/O devices allow users to input data into the computer, or receive a data output from the computer.
   • Keyboard, Mouse, Monitor, Speakers, etc

3. Primary Storage

   • Primary storage is the memory in which the computer can store the data or instructions that are currently in use.
   • RAM
   • ROM

4. Secondary Storage

   • Secondary storage is the memory in which the computer can store the data or instructions which are NOT currently in use.
   • HDD
   • SSD
   • CD
   • Flash Drive