CR1350: Computer and Network Technologies - Exam Preparation Notes

PIRS Notes (slideshow notes at bottom)

1.0 Computer Systems

1.1 Functional View of Computer Systems and Mobile Devices

• Functional View: Understand the basic components: CPU, memory, I/O devices, and storage.
• Mobile Devices: Smaller, energy-efficient systems with specialized hardware (e.g., SoCs) optimized for portability.

1.2 Top-Level Structural View of a Computer System

• Elements:
  • CPU: Central Processing Unit, executes instructions.
  • Memory: Stores data and instructions.
  • I/O Devices: Interface with external devices.
  • Bus: Transfers data between components.

1.3 Evolution of the Intel Processor Family

• Clock Speed: Measured in GHz, speed at which the CPU executes instructions.
• Transistors: The basic building blocks of a processor; more transistors allow for more powerful CPUs.
• Bus Width: Number of bits processed in one go (e.g., 32-bit, 64-bit).
• Addressable Memory: Amount of memory a processor can use.
• Multi-core Processors: Modern CPUs have multiple cores for parallel processing.

1.4 Embedded Systems vs. General-Purpose Computers

• Embedded Systems: Specialized computers designed for specific tasks (e.g., microcontrollers in appliances).
• General-Purpose Computers: Versatile systems like PCs, capable of running a wide range of applications.

2.0 Computer Organization

2.1 Internal Organization of a CPU