9618 · 3.1
Computers and their components flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9618 Computers and their components (syllabus 3.1). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
Card
What is the Von Neumann architecture?
A computer architecture model where program instructions and data are stored in the same memory and share the same data bus. It consists of a CPU, memory, and I/O devices.
Card
What are the two main components of the CPU?
The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) which performs calculations and logical operations, and the Control Unit (CU) which directs the flow of data and executes instructions.
Card
What is the function of the Program Counter (PC) register?
The PC holds the memory address of the next instruction to be fetched from primary memory.
Card
What is the function of the Memory Address Register (MAR)?
The MAR holds the address of the memory location that is to be read from or written to.
Card
What is the function of the Memory Data Register (MDR)?
The MDR temporarily stores data that has been read from memory or is about to be written to memory. It acts as a buffer.
Card
What is the difference between RAM and ROM?
RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile, read/write memory for current programs and data. ROM (Read-Only Memory) is non-volatile and stores permanent instructions, like the bootstrap loader.
Card
Define 'volatile memory'.
Memory that requires a constant power supply to retain its data. If power is lost, the contents are erased. Example: RAM.
Card
Compare the key features of SSDs and HDDs.
SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster, more durable, and quieter but have a higher cost per gigabyte and lower capacity. HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) offer higher capacity at a lower cost but are slower and more susceptible to physical damage due to moving parts.
Card
What is cache memory?
A small, extremely fast type of volatile memory located on or very close to the CPU. It stores frequently accessed data and instructions to reduce the time the CPU has to wait for data from RAM.
Card
Distinguish between an input and an output device.
An input device sends data to the computer system for processing (e.g., keyboard, mouse). An output device receives data from the computer to present to the user (e.g., monitor, printer).
Card
What is the purpose of backing storage?
Also known as secondary storage, it is non-volatile storage used to store programs and data for the long term, even when the computer is powered off. Examples include HDDs, SSDs, and USB drives.