The central processing unit that contains the processor, main memory and cache.
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Main memory/RAM
Also known as Immediate Access Store and Primary Memory The memory in the CPU that is used to temporarily store programs while they are running and data used by these programs. The processor fetches instructions from main memory.
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Cache
High speed memory in the CPU that is used to store a copy of frequently used instructions and data. Faster access speed than main memory. Used to improve CPU performance.
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Processor
The component in the computer that fetches, decodes and executes instructions.
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Clock speed
Measured in hertz or cycles per second, the clock speed represents how many instructions per second the processor can execute. The higher the clock speed the faster the CPU can operate.
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System Buses
The circuits/internal wiring that connect the processor and main memory together.
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RAM
Random Access Memory: a type of memory that is read-write and volatile. Used for Main Memory.
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ROM
Read Only Memory: memory that is hard-coded at the time of manufacture. Stores the start up programs, the boot-strap loader.
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Bootstrap loader
The first program that is loaded into main memory from ROM when a computer is switched on. This will load the operating system from secondary storage.
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volatile
Describes memory that loses its contents when the power is turned off. Eg: main memory
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Non-volatile
Describes memory that does not lose its contents when the power is turned off. Eg: hard disk.
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Secondary memory
Long term, non-volatile storage media such as hard disks, memory sticks, magnetic tapes & CDs.
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Virtual memory
Part of the hard disk that is configured to behave as an extension to main memory.
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Magnetic media
Secondary storage such as hard disks, tape and floppy disks.
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Optical media
Secondary storage that is read using lasers such as CDs and DVDs.
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Solid state/Flash Memory
Secondary storage that has no moving parts. Used in memory sticks, cameras and phones.
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Pen drive
Another term for a USB memory stick
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Boolean Expression
An expression that is either true or false eg: X=10
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Truth table
A table that shows all the possible combinations of inputs and their logical output value.
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Logical operators
AND, OR, NOT
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Logic diagrams
A diagram of a circuit showing logic gates with inputs and the output these generate.
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Other cards in this set
Card 2
Front
Main memory/RAM
Back
Also known as Immediate Access Store and Primary Memory The memory in the CPU that is used to temporarily store programs while they are running and data used by these programs. The processor fetches instructions from main memory.
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