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1.1 System Architecture

GCSE Computer Science (J277)

Learning Objectives Flashcards Quiz Exam Questions

Fill in the blanks with the correct words. Click "Check Answer" to see if you're right!

Term: CPU

Definition:

Processing Unit. The brain of the computer that fetches, decodes and executes instructions and data.
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Term: Fetch-decode-execute cycle

Definition:

The complete process of retrieving an from , decoding it and carrying it out.
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Term: ALU

Definition:

Logic Unit. Performs calculations (e.g., x = 2 + 3) and logical comparisons (e.g., IF x > 3) in the CPU. Sends the results to the accumulator.
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Term: CU (Control Unit)

Definition:

Sends control signals to manage how data moves around the CPU. instructions.
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Term: Cache

Definition:

onboard the CPU. Stores frequently used instructions and data. High speed access.
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Term: Register

Definition:

Tiny areas of extremely fast memory located in the CPU. of MDR, MAR, ACC, PC and CIR in a Von Neuman CPU.
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Term: Von Neumann architecture

Definition:

CPU where instructions are fetched, decoded and executed one at a time. Instructions and data are stored in the same block of memory.
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Term: MAR

Definition:

Address Register. Stores the address of the currently processed instruction.
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Term: MDR

Definition:

Data Register. Stores the data fetched from or to be written to memory.
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Term: PC

Definition:

Counter. Stores the address of the next instruction to be processed.
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Term: ACC

Definition:

. Stores the result of calculations performed in the ALU. Stores data collected from input or sent to output devices.
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Term: Clock speed

Definition:

The frequency at which the FDE cycle is carried out. Measured in hertz. The higher the the more instructions can be carried out per second.
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Term: Cache size

Definition:

is high speed memory that store frequently used instructions and data. The larger the cache, the more data that can be stored without having to go back to main memory. This will increase processing speed.
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Term: Cores

Definition:

A core is a copy of the CPUs processing unit and registers. More mean more instructions can be fetched -decoded and executed at the same time.
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Term: Embedded system

Definition:

A small computer with a dedicated function placed inside a different mechanical device.
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