CS 1.1.2 Types of Processor

13 flashcards · Computer Science · by TheoTyson

1. von Neumann Architecture

   Data and instructions are stored in the same memory unit, with only one set of buses for transferring data. Instructions are fetched and executed by a processor that performs arithmetic and logical operations.

2. Harvard Architecture

   Two physically separate memories for instructions and data that can be accessed by separate buses. Often used for embedded systems.

3. Embedded Systems

   Computer systems dedicated to a specific purpose built into devices operating in real time.

4. Comparison of von Neumann and Harvard Architecture

   von Neumann architecture in conventional processors, Harvard for embedded systems. von Neumann architecture has a shared memory for data and instructions. von Neumann has one bus to transfer data and instructions, Harvard has parallel buses. von Neumann programs can be optimised in size.

5. Contemporary Processor Architecture

   Contemporary processors use a combination of von Neumann architecture for main memory, and Harvard architecture for cache.

6. Complex Instruction Set Computers (CISC)

   A large set of complex instructions that are built into the hardware, to try and used as few lines of assembly code as possible. Not all instructions on hardware are utilised.

7. Reduced Instruction Set Computers (RISC)

   A small set of simple instructions that take one clock cycle. Pipelining is possible as the program can be broken up.

8. Comparison of CISC and RISC

   CISC has many complex instructions, RISC has few simple instructions. More RAM is required to store RISC programs. The compiler has to do more work to translate high level code into RISC machine code than CISC machine code.

9. Co-processor

   An extra processor used to aid the functions of the primary processor.

10. Multicore Systems

    Systems that have independent cores that can complete instructions separately.

11. Parallel Systems

    They make use of a single core, but break the program into threads which can run concurrently.

12. Concurrency

    Switching between different threads that are running quickly so that it appears that they are all running simultaneously.

13. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

    A coprocessor that consists of thousands of smaller cores designed for parallel processing, in order to carry out computer intensive parts such as computer graphics.