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The stored-program concept is a fundamental principle of modern computing where instructions to be executed by the computer are stored in its memory alongside the data. This allows for flexibility and efficiency in program execution, enabling computers to perform a wide range of tasks by simply loading different programs into memory.
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The central processing unit (CPU) is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside a computer. It executes instructions from programs by performing basic arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output operations specified by the instructions.
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Memory is a cognitive process that involves encoding, storing, and retrieving information, allowing humans to retain past experiences and knowledge for future use. It is a complex system influenced by biological, psychological, and environmental factors, crucial for learning, decision-making, and identity formation.
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The instruction cycle is the fundamental process through which a computer retrieves, decodes, and executes instructions from memory, forming the backbone of CPU operations. It ensures that each instruction is processed in a systematic manner, optimizing the performance and efficiency of computing tasks.
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The Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle is the fundamental operational process of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) that retrieves instructions from memory, decodes them to determine the required action, and then executes them to perform tasks. This cycle is repeated continuously by the CPU to process instructions and manage data flow within a computing system.
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Sequential execution refers to the process where a computer program runs instructions one after another in a specific order, ensuring that each step is completed before the next one begins. This method is fundamental for maintaining logical flow and data integrity in both simple and complex computational tasks.
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A bottleneck is a point of congestion in a system that significantly reduces its overall efficiency and throughput. Identifying and addressing bottlenecks is crucial for optimizing performance and ensuring smooth operation across various domains, from manufacturing processes to computer networks.
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A data bus is a communication system within a computer or device, responsible for transferring data between components. It plays a crucial role in determining the speed and efficiency of data processing and overall system performance.
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An address bus is a critical component in a computer architecture that carries memory addresses from the processor to other components, allowing the CPU to access specific memory locations. The width of the address bus determines the maximum addressing capability of the system, directly influencing how much memory can be accessed by the processor.
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The Control Unit (CU) is a crucial component of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) that directs the operation of the processor by managing the execution of instructions. It interprets program instructions and converts them into control signals, orchestrating the movement of data within the CPU and between other components of the computer system.
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The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is a critical component of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) responsible for executing arithmetic and logical operations. It performs fundamental operations like addition, subtraction, and logical comparisons, enabling the CPU to process data and execute instructions efficiently.
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General-purpose computing refers to the ability of a computer system to perform a wide range of tasks, rather than being limited to specific applications. This flexibility is achieved through programmable hardware and software, allowing users to execute various types of programs on the same machine.
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Classical computing refers to traditional computing systems that process information using bits, which can be either a 0 or a 1. These systems operate under classical physics principles and form the basis of virtually all current computing technology, from personal computers to massive data centers.
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Microcontroller architecture refers to the design and structure of microcontrollers, which are compact integrated circuits used to govern a specific system or application. They integrate a processor core, memory, and peripherals on a single chip, enabling efficient control over diverse electronic devices.
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The Von Neumann Bottleneck refers to the limitation on throughput in a computer system caused by the separation of the CPU and memory, as they can only communicate over a shared bus system, restricting data transfer rates. This architectural limitation creates a performance bottleneck because the speed of the CPU outpaces the speed at which data can be delivered from memory, causing inefficiencies in processing tasks.
Instruction and Data Separation is a fundamental computer architecture principle that keeps program instructions separate from data to enhance security and improve the efficiency of code execution. This separation allows for optimized performance and easier maintenance by preventing instructions from being inadvertently modified as data.
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