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| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| • (ALU Arithmetic/logic unit): | Part of the CPU where all calculations and comparisons take place. |
| • Bit: | In binary, a bit represents a zero or one. |
| • Byte: | Another word for character; generally represented by 8 bits. |
| • Cache memory: | High-speed random access memory that is used to increase the speed of the data-processing cycle. |
| • Central processing unit (CPU): | Also known as the microprocessor; the brains of the computer. |
| • Computer system: | Input, output, and processing devices grouped together. |
| • Control unit: | That part of the CPU that coordinates all CPU activities |
| • Controller: | Device that controls the transfer of data from the computer to a peripheral device and vice versa. |
| • Execution cycle (E-cycle): | Amount of time it takes the central processing unit to execute an instruction and store the results in RAM. |
| • Expansion slot: | Openings on the motherboard where an expansion board, also called an adapter card, can be inserted. |
| • FireWire: | Type of external bus that supports data transfer rates up to 400 Mbps and can connect up to 63 external devices. |
| • Instruction cycle (I-cycle): | Amount of time it takes the central processing unit to retrieve an instruction and complete the command. |
| • Machine cycle: | Made up of the instruction cycle and the execution cycle. |
| • Memory: | Also called random access memory or RAM, it is like short-term memory. It stores data while the computer is running. When the computer is turned off or if there is a loss of power, any data in the main memory disappears. The computer can read from and wri |