This unit covers how the basics of what a CPU is, what affects its performance and how a computer actually runs. We look at the Fetch, Decode Execute cycle as well as what an embedded system really is.
The booklet will be available for you to complete on teams.
1.1.1 - Architecture of the CPU
The purpose of the CPU:
The fetch-decode-execute cycle
Common CPU components and their function:
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
CU (Control Unit)
Cache
Registers
Von Neumann architecture:
MAR (Memory Address Register)
MDR (Memory Data Register)
Program Counter
Accumulator
1.1.2 - CPU performance
How common characteristics of CPUs can affect their performance:
Clock speed
Cache size
Number of cores
1.1.3 - Embedded systems
The purpose and characteristics of embedded systems
Examples of embedded systems
1.1 - Systems Architecture
Test revision material
In a Nutshell - This is where is go through everything in the unit in an easy to digest video
Questions Video - Here is me answering some sample questions and similar ones will appear in the exam.
