Fundamentals of Computer Processing part 2

Processors

•Main unit where processing is performed

•Called CPU

•Microcomputer CPUs called microprocessors

•Speed

•Moore’s Law

•Megahertz (MHz)

•Word Size

Memory

•Main memory

•Storage area where both data being processed and program instructions being executed are stored

•Storage (secondary)

•Magnetized coding on the surface of a storage device

Bits and Bytes

•One kilobyte (1KB)

•210 bytes (1,024)

•One megabyte (1MB)

•220 bytes (1,048,576)

•One gigabyte (1GB)

•230 bytes (1,073,741,924)

Different Memory Types

•RAM - Random access memory

•Computer programs and data are loaded into RAM to be executed by the computer processor

•ROM - Read-only memory

•Information used by the operating system and processor when the computer is started

•DRAM - Dynamic RAM

•Allows buffering of data and increases efficiency of RAM


Different Memory Types  (cont.)

•SDRAM - Synchronous DRAM

•Runs much faster than most conventional memory because it synchronizes its cycles with the processor’s cycles

•SIMM - Single in-line memory module

•Holds 9 memory chips and transmits 32 bits of data per cycle

•DIMM - Dual in-line memory module

•Transmits 64 bits per data cycle

Input Devices 

•Keyboards

•Microphones

•Machine-captured data

•Scanners/barcodes

•Cost benefits

Output Devices 

•Displayed

•Monitor

•Resolution

•Pixals

•GUI 

•CGA, EGA, VGA, SVGA

•Printed

•Speed

•Quality 

•Impact/nonimpact