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Computers and their components
A computer is a system of interconnected components that work together to process data. This process is governed by the Von Neumann architecture, where both instructions and data are stored in the same memory.
Need to know
What you need to know
- **Single Main Memory:** Both data and instructions are stored in the same memory space.
- **Addressability:** Each location in memory is uniquely addressable, allowing the CPU to access any location directly.
- **Components:** The system is comprised of a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a main memory unit, and input/output (I/O) devices.
- **Sequential Execution:** Instructions are typically fetched and executed in a sequential order, unless a control instruction (like a jump or branch) changes the flow.
Explanation
Inside the Digital Brain
- CPU: ALU + control unit + registers. | Sim hint: Fetch–decode–execute.
- RAM volatile; ROM non-volatile. | Sim hint: Primary vs secondary storage.
- SSD vs HDD: speed vs capacity/cost. | Sim hint: Secondary storage trade-offs.
- Input, output, and backing storage devices. | Sim hint: Match device to role.