3_4_4 Systems architecture

You should be able to:

• Explain the Von Neumann architecture.
• Explain the role and operation of main memory and the following major components of a central processing unit (CPU):

•• arithmetic logic unit

•• control unit

•• clock

•• bus

• Explain the effect of the following on the performance of the CPU:

•• clock speed

•• number of processor cores

•• cache size

•• cache type.

• Understand and explain the Fetch-Execute cycle.
• Understand the differences between main memory and secondary storage.
• Understand the differences between RAM and ROM.
• Understand why secondary storage is required.
• Be aware of different types of secondary storage (solid state, optical and magnetic).
• Explain the operation of solid state, optical and magnetic storage.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of solid state, optical and magnetic storage.
• Explain the term 'cloud storage'.
• Explain the advantages and disadvantages of cloud storage when compared to local storage.
• Understand the term 'embedded system' and explain how an embedded system differs from a non-embedded system.