Topic 2 - Computer organization

Topic 2 - Computer organization

2.1 Computer organization

Computer architecture

• 2.1.1 Outline the architecture of the central processing unit (CPU) and the functions of the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and the control unit (CU) and the registers within the CPU.

• 2.1.2 Describe primary memory.

• 2.1.3 Explain the use of cache memory.

• 2.1.4 Explain the machine instruction cycle.

Secondary memory

• 2.1.5 Identify the need for persistent storage.

Operating systems and application systems

• 2.1.6 Describe the main functions of an operating system.

• 2.1.7 Outline the use of a range of application software.

• 2.1.8 Identify common features of applications.

Binary representation

• 2.1.9 Define the terms: bit, byte, binary, denary/decimal, hexadecimal.

• 2.1.10 Outline the way in which data is represented in the computer.

Simple logic gates

• 2.1.11 Define the Boolean operators: AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR and XOR.

• 2.1.12 Construct truth tables using the above operators.

• 2.1.13 Construct a logic diagram using AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR and XOR gates.