1.1
Characteristics of Contemporary Processors
CPU architecture, instruction sets, and processor performance
Structure and function of the processorTypes of processorInput, output and storage
The CPU contains the ALU (arithmetic logic unit), control unit, and registers
Von Neumann architecture uses a single memory for instructions and data
Harvard architecture separates instruction and data memory
Pipelining allows multiple instructions to be processed simultaneously
CISC processors have complex instructions; RISC processors have simple, fast instructions
Clock speed measured in Hz determines instruction processing rate
Cache memory (L1, L2, L3) provides fast access to frequently used data
Cores allow parallel processing of multiple instruction streams
Exam Tips
- •Always define key terms before explaining concepts
- •Use specific examples where possible to demonstrate understanding
- •Check mark allocation - one point per mark is a good guide