General Purpose Computers

Most General Purpose Computers (GPCs) use the Von Neumann Architecture where both instructions and data are stored in the same shared memory (RAM).

When a general purpose computer is switched off, Data and instructions are stored in Secondary Storage (normally a hard drive).

Modern GPCs will have an operating system that makes it easy for a user to load new software into primary memory so that the computer can complete different tasks.

Programs are loaded (moved from secondary storage) into Primary Storage (the RAM) so that they can be processed by the CPU.

Keywords

Von Neumann Architecture

A design for the architecture of a computer. Instructions and Data are stored in shared Primary Memory

Software

Software that is stored permanently in the primary memory of an embedded computer and contains the instructions for how it operates.

RAM

Random Access Memory. Part of the Primary Memory of a computer. In General Purpose Computers, this is where the data and Instructions are stored ready for processing.

Primary Storage

Memory that has a direct link to the processor and holds data and instructions ready for processing.

Secondary Storage

Memory that has no direct link to the processor. Data and instructions are moved into primary storage to be processed.

Secondary Storage is non-volatile, so will hold data when the computer is switched off. It is used for long-term storage.