Computer systems

Computer systems

1. Software

2. Hardware

   • Input
   • Output

3. CPU (central processing unit

   • Fetch instructions, decodes instructions, executes instructions
   • Made up of millions of switches (this is why it understand binary code)
   • Split into 2
     • ALU (Arithmetic Logic unit)
       • Used for the calculations and deicions required
     • Control unit
       • Responsible for decoding the instructions and sending out signals to control how data moves around the parts of the CPU.

4. 3 main types of computer systems

   • general purpose computer
     • e.g PC, ipad, laptop
   • control systems
     • e.g. manufacturing processes
   • Dedicated
     • Specific
       • e.g train ticket vending machine

5. Embedded computer systems

   • A computer system that forms part of electronic device
   • E.g. watches, Tv, telephone, washing machines, traffic lights
   • Any device which has a computer built in it
   • Advantages; Low-power devices. small in size, low cost, dedicated to one task

6. Processor

   • It processes Data and instructions
   • carries out instructions (executes them)
   • Clock speed is measured in Hertz (number of cycles per second
   • The processor is the "brains of a computer system"
   • The more cores the processor has, the faster it will run

7. Systems Architecture

   • Buses
     • 3 different types
       • Data bus
         • Carries data between the CPU and memory
       • Control bus
         • Carries control signals around the CPU and memory
       • Address bus
         • Carries memory addresses for locations to be rad from and written to