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IGCSE Computer Architecture IO Devices Notes

The document provides detailed notes on Computer Architecture and Input/Output Devices for IGCSE Computer Science, covering key concepts such as the Von Neumann architecture, the fetch-decode-execute cycle, and various input/output devices. It includes essential components like CPU registers, buses, and factors affecting CPU performance. Additionally, it outlines both standard and specialized input/output devices that facilitate user interaction with computer systems.

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16 views2 pages

IGCSE Computer Architecture IO Devices Notes

The document provides detailed notes on Computer Architecture and Input/Output Devices for IGCSE Computer Science, covering key concepts such as the Von Neumann architecture, the fetch-decode-execute cycle, and various input/output devices. It includes essential components like CPU registers, buses, and factors affecting CPU performance. Additionally, it outlines both standard and specialized input/output devices that facilitate user interaction with computer systems.

Uploaded by

adithyarathan2010
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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IGCSE Computer Science: Detailed

Notes
Topic: Computer Architecture & Input/Output Devices

Covers content from both Cambridge and Hodder IGCSE Computer Science books.
Includes exam-aligned phrasing based on marking schemes.

1. Computer Architecture

1.1 Overview
Computer architecture refers to the structure and behavior of the computer system as
seen by the user. It includes the layout and functioning of the CPU, memory system,
buses, and other components that make up a computer.

1.2 Von Neumann Architecture


This is the model used in most modern computers. It consists of a single memory space
for both instructions and data.
Key features:
- Shared memory for instructions and data
- Sequential execution of instructions
- Control Unit, Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), registers, and buses

1.3 Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle


The process by which a CPU retrieves, interprets, and executes instructions:
1. Fetch: The next instruction is fetched from memory into the Instruction Register (IR).
2. Decode: The Control Unit interprets the instruction.
3. Execute: The ALU performs the required operation or data is moved/stored.

1.4 Registers
- Program Counter (PC): Holds the address of the next instruction.
- Memory Address Register (MAR): Stores memory location to be accessed.
- Memory Data Register (MDR): Holds data read from or written to memory.
- Instruction Register (IR): Holds the current instruction.
- Accumulator (ACC): Stores results of calculations.
1.5 Buses
Buses are communication systems that transfer data between components:
- Data Bus: Carries data.
- Address Bus: Carries memory addresses.
- Control Bus: Carries control signals.

1.6 Factors Affecting CPU Performance


- Clock Speed: Higher speed = more instructions per second.
- Cache Size: Stores frequently used data.
- Number of Cores: More cores allow parallel instruction execution.
- Word Length and Bus Width: Influence amount of data processed.

2. Input and Output Devices

2.1 Introduction
Input and output (I/O) devices allow users to interact with a computer system. Input
devices send data to the computer, while output devices receive and display or produce
the results of processed data.

2.2 Input Devices


- Keyboard: Manual input of alphanumeric data.
- Mouse: Pointing device for navigation.
- Scanner: Converts images and text to digital format.
- Barcode Reader: Scans bar patterns and converts to digital data.
- MICR: Reads magnetic ink characters (e.g., on cheques).
- OCR: Converts printed text to editable digital text.
- OMR: Detects marks on pre-defined positions (e.g., MCQ sheets).
- Sensors: Measure environmental data (temperature, light, motion).

2.3 Output Devices


- Monitor: Displays visual output using LCD/LED tech.
- Printer: Produces hard copies; includes inkjet, laser, and 3D printers.
- Speakers: Output audio signals.
- Actuators: Convert signals to physical movement (used in automation).

2.4 Specialised Devices


- Braille Keyboards: Assist visually impaired users.
- Eye-Tracking Systems: Assist physically impaired users.
- Voice Recognition: Converts spoken words into text/commands.

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