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Data Conversion

Computer data conversion is the process of transforming data into compatible formats for processing and storage. Key components such as registers, addresses, and buses are integral to this process, with registers serving as high-speed storage within the CPU. The document outlines the stages of data processing and factors influencing data transfer speed.

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2 views

Data Conversion

Computer data conversion is the process of transforming data into compatible formats for processing and storage. Key components such as registers, addresses, and buses are integral to this process, with registers serving as high-speed storage within the CPU. The document outlines the stages of data processing and factors influencing data transfer speed.

Uploaded by

odunsal5
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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### Lesson Note: **Computer Data Conversion**

---

#### **Topic**: Computer Data Conversion

---

### **Introduction**

Data conversion is a critical process in computing that involves transforming data into a format or
structure that is compatible with a specific purpose, application, or system. It ensures smooth data
processing, transfer, and storage.

---

### **Register**

A **register** is a high-speed storage area within the CPU.

- All data must be represented in a register before being processed.

- Example: If two numbers are to be multiplied, both numbers must be in registers, and the result is
placed in a register.

- Registers can store either the actual data or the address of the memory location where data is stored.

---

### **Address**

- An **address** is a reference to a storage location in the main memory.


- Computer memory can be visualized as an array of storage boxes, with each box assigned a unique
number (address).

---

### **Bus**

- A **bus** is a collection of wires used to transmit data within a computer.

- Think of a bus as a highway on which data travels.

- In personal computers, the term **internal bus** refers to the bus that connects all internal
components to the CPU and main memory.

---

### **Types of Registers**

Registers play a vital role in CPU operation. Common types include:

1. **Memory Data Register (MDR):**

- Holds data or the memory address that contains the next data or instruction to be used.

- Acts as a buffer for data being transferred between the CPU and memory.

2. **Current Instruction Register (CIR):**

- Contains the instruction currently being executed by the CPU.

- Stores instructions while they are being decoded, prepared, and executed.

---
### **Differences Between Register and Main Memory**

| **Factor Considered** | **Register** | **Main Memory** |

|------------------------|--------------------|--------------------|

| **Speed** | Very fast | Fast |

| **Storage Capacity** | Very low | Moderate |

| **Relative Cost** | Very high | High |

---

### **Data-Fetch-Execute Cycle**

The **fetch-execute cycle** is the fundamental process by which a computer operates.

**Steps in the Cycle:**

1. **Fetch the Instruction:** Retrieve the instruction from memory.

2. **Decode the Instruction:** Understand what the instruction is.

3. **Execute the Instruction:** Perform the operation indicated by the instruction.

---

### **Operating Procedure of Computer Data Processing**

Computer data processing transforms raw data into meaningful information through a series of
activities.

#### **Stages of Data Processing:**

1. **Collection:** Gathering raw data.

2. **Conversion:** Transforming data into a processable format.


3. **Manipulation:** Processing and analyzing the data.

4. **Storage:** Saving the processed data for future use.

5. **Communication:** Sharing or transferring the processed data.

---

### **Factors Affecting the Speed of Data Transfer**

1. **Bus Speed:** The rate at which data travels within the computer.

2. **Bus Width:** The amount of data the bus can carry at one time.

3. **Medium of Storage:** The type of storage device (e.g., SSD vs HDD).

4. **Data Transfer Medium:** The channel used for data transfer (e.g., wired vs wireless).

---

### **Diagram: Data Conversion and Processing Flow**

```plaintext

+------------------+ +------------------+

| Raw Data | ----> | Conversion |

+------------------+ +------------------+

+------------------+

| Manipulation |

+------------------+
|

+------------------+

| Storage |

+------------------+

+------------------+

| Communication |

+------------------+

```

---

### **WAEC Questions**

**1. WAEC 2018 (Theory):**

(a) Define a register.

(b) Explain two types of registers and their functions.

**2. WAEC 2020 (Objective):**

The component used to hold the instruction currently being executed is the:

A. Memory Data Register

B. Current Instruction Register

C. Address Bus
D. Main Memory

**3. WAEC 2021 (Theory):**

(a) Differentiate between a register and main memory based on:

- Speed

- Storage Capacity

- Cost

(b) State three factors affecting the speed of data transfer.

---

### **Summary**

Computer data conversion involves transforming data into formats or structures suitable for processing,
storage, or communication. Key components like registers, addresses, and buses play essential roles in
this process. Understanding these concepts is crucial for effective data processing and computer
operations.

---

Would you like further illustrations or additional sample WAEC questions?

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