Central processing unit - the main part of the computer, consisting of the registers, ALU and Control Unit
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Von Neumann architecture
Traditional computer architecture which forms the basis of most digital computer systems - instructions are fetched, decoded and executed one at a time.
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Embedded system
A computer system embedded in another item (e.g. traffic lights, a microwave or a washing machine) that performs a specific task and is not easily changed
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Registers
Small areas of extremely fast memory in the CPU, e.g. the MDR and MAR.
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Control unit
A part of the CPU that decodes instructions and sends signals to control movement of data around the CPU.
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ALU
Arithmetic Logic Unit - a part of the CPU that performs calculations (e.g. answer = 2+3) and logical comparisons (e.g. x > 3)
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Main memory
Also known as RAM or Random Access Memory - volatile, random access store for instructions and data in current use.
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Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle
The cycle, also known as the instruction cycle, in which instructions are fetched from main memory, decoded by the control unit, and then executed, sometimes with the involvement of the ALU.
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Clock speed
The speed at which the internal clock, which synchronises other components in the system, sends out pulses.
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Other cards in this set
Card 2
Front
Von Neumann architecture
Back
Traditional computer architecture which forms the basis of most digital computer systems - instructions are fetched, decoded and executed one at a time.
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