System Architecture & Memory

System Architecture & Memory

1. System Architecture

   • Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
     • Carries out the calculations and logical decisions within the CPU
   • Central Processing Unit (CPU)
     • A processer
     • Designed to fetch, decode & execute instructions
   • Cache
     • A small high speed memory
     • Store frequently used instructions from the CPU
   • Clock Speed
     • How many cycles can be completed per second (Measured in Hertz)
   • Control Unit (CU)
     • Works with the CPU
     • Controls the flow of data within the systems and to decode instructions
   • CPU Cores
     • More cores means more FDE cycles can be completed at the same time
     • Quad Core = 4 Cores
   • Register
     • High speed memory within the CPU
     • Stores data/instructions being processed

2. Memory

   • Random Access Memory (RAM)
     • Store temporary data and files from running programs
     • Volatile Memory
   • Read-Only Memory (ROM)
     • Non-volatile memory
     • Stores boot up instructions
   • Virtual Memory
     • An extension of RAM set up on the hard drive
     • Used to act like RAM when RAM becomes full
   • Volatile
     • Memory that wipes clean when power is lost