The CPU
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the “brain” of the computer. It is the key component that performs computations and controls the rest of the system. In this set of lessons, we will explore the function of the CPU, review the von Neumann and Harvard Architectures, examine the parts of the CPU, and learn about different Instruction Set Architectures (ISAs).
Learning Materials
Sample Questions
- What were the primary components of the EDVAC, as described by John von Neumann?
- How does a Harvard Architecture system differ from a Princeton Architecture system?
- What architecture results from using a split L1 cache?
- What is the function of the Control Unit in a modern CPU?
- What is the function of the ALU in a modern CPU?
- How can the use of an AGU, MMU, and TLB improve CPU performance?
- What are some examples of I/O devices?
- What is the difference between PIO and DMA when performing I/O operations?
- How does the use of an IOMMU improve system security?
- What are CPU registers?
- What is the term for on-paper design that describes the low-level software interface used by a CPU?
- How is an ISA a type of abstraction?
- What is the difference between RISC and CISC?
- Briefly describe the x86_64, Arm, RISC-V, and POWER ISAs.
