Components of a computer system

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What does the control unit do?
Execute program instructions using the fetch-decode-execute cycle.
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What does the arithmetic logic unit do?
All calculations and logical (AND, OR, NOT) operations
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What is cache memory?
Very fast memory that stores regularly used data for quick access by the CPU.
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What are the three different levels of cache memory?
Level 1 is the quickest with the least capacity. Going up the scale, the speed decreases and the capacity increases.
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What is the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory?
Volatile memory is temporary memory (it requires power to retain data). Non-volatile is permanent - and keeps its content even with no power.
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What is ROM?
Read Only Memory - non-volatile, contains read-only information such as the BIOS (boot instructions) for a computer. May also be used in games and applications.
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What is RAM?
Random Access Memory - volatile, stores what the computer is currently doing
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What is secondary storage used for?
Saving a user's work when it is not in use
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What is virtual memory?
Secondary storage used as extra RAM
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What is utility software?
Software designed for a specific task only (i.e. defragmentation, encryption software)
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What is open-source software?
Software where the source code is made freely available. Usually free, can be adapted by users... but there is no warranty, security holes and a lack of updates
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What is proprietary software?
Software where the source code is not available. It is usually paid for. Examples include Microsoft Word and Adobe PhotoShop.
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Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

What does the arithmetic logic unit do?

Back

All calculations and logical (AND, OR, NOT) operations

Card 3

Front

What is cache memory?

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

What are the three different levels of cache memory?

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

What is the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory?

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
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