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Overview of Computer Architecture Basics

The document provides an overview of computer architecture based on the von Neumann model, highlighting key concepts such as the storage of data and instructions in a single memory and the sequential execution of operations. It contrasts general-purpose hardware with hardwired programs, emphasizing the evolution of programming through software that simplifies control signal generation for various tasks. Additionally, it discusses the roles of memory and I/O modules in a computer system, detailing how they interact to facilitate data processing and instruction execution.

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18 views10 pages

Overview of Computer Architecture Basics

The document provides an overview of computer architecture based on the von Neumann model, highlighting key concepts such as the storage of data and instructions in a single memory and the sequential execution of operations. It contrasts general-purpose hardware with hardwired programs, emphasizing the evolution of programming through software that simplifies control signal generation for various tasks. Additionally, it discusses the roles of memory and I/O modules in a computer system, detailing how they interact to facilitate data processing and instruction execution.

Uploaded by

cabdilaahiaxmedcabdi3
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Lesson 3

A Top-Level View of Computer


Function and Interconnection

Engr:Mohamed Osman Omar


Agenda

• Computer Components - von Neumann Architecture

• General-Purpose Hardware vs. Hardwired Programs

• Memory and I/O Modules in a Computer System


Computer Components - von Neumann Architecture
 von Neumann Architecture Overview
 Virtually all modern computer designs are based on the concepts developed by John von
Neumann at the Institute for Advanced Studies, Princeton.
 The von Neumann architecture is characterized by three key concepts:
1. Data and instructions are stored in a single read–write memory.
2. Memory is addressable by location, independent of data type.
3. Execution occurs sequentially unless explicitly modified (i.e., one instruction follows
another unless directed otherwise).
 Logical Components in Computation
 Basic logic components can be combined to store binary data and perform
arithmetic/logical operations.
 Custom hardware can be designed for specific computations—hardwired programs.
 This requires manual rewiring for each new computation.
General-Purpose Hardware vs. Hardwired Programs

• General-Purpose Hardware Design


• A general-purpose configuration of arithmetic and logic functions is used.
• Hardware performs functions based on control signals.
• Instead of creating new hardware for each computation, programmers supply new
control signals to execute different tasks.
• Control Signals and Program Steps
• Each program is a sequence of steps, with each step performing an operation on data.
• Control signals are required for each step to perform the operation.
• A unique code is assigned to each control signal set.
• A segment of the system generates control signals from the code, ensuring the system
can handle various computations without rewiring hardware.
Evolution of Programming and Computer Components

 Easier Programming with Software


 Programming is simplified: Instead of rewiring hardware for each new program,
we provide a sequence of codes, called instructions.
 Each instruction is interpreted by the hardware, generating control signals for the
operations.
 This method of programming is known as software.
 Major CPU Components
 Instruction Interpreter: Decodes instructions and generates control signals.
 General-purpose Arithmetic and Logic Functions: Executes operations on data.
 Together, these form the CPU (Central Processing Unit).
 Input and Output Modules
 Input Module: Accepts and converts external data and instructions into usable internal signals.
 Output Module: Displays results and sends output data to external devices.
• Memory and Storage
• Memory (Main Memory): Stores both instructions and data temporarily.
• Von Neumann emphasized using the same memory for both purposes.
 Data Exchange Components
• MAR (Memory Address Register): Specifies memory addresses for read/write operations.
• MBR (Memory Buffer Register): Holds data for reading/writing in memory.
• I/OAR (I/O Address Register) and I/OBR (I/O Buffer Register): Manage data exchange
between the CPU and I/O modules.
Memory and I/O Modules in a Computer System

• Memory Module
• Consists of sequentially numbered addresses that define locations.
• Each location stores a binary number that can represent either data or an
instruction.
• I/O Module
• Transfers data between external devices and the CPU or memory.
• Contains internal buffers to temporarily hold data before it is sent to its
destination.
• Functioning Together
• Memory and I/O modules work together to execute programs by storing,
transferring, and processing instructions and data.
Any Question

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