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lect1-2 Introduction to Computer Hardware and Architecture

This lecture introduces the fundamental concepts of computer hardware and architecture, covering essential components such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices. It also discusses key architectural principles like the Von Neumann model and the importance of buses in data transfer. Understanding these basics is crucial for grasping how computers operate and interact with software.

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zayedalnaggar
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16 views

lect1-2 Introduction to Computer Hardware and Architecture

This lecture introduces the fundamental concepts of computer hardware and architecture, covering essential components such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices. It also discusses key architectural principles like the Von Neumann model and the importance of buses in data transfer. Understanding these basics is crucial for grasping how computers operate and interact with software.

Uploaded by

zayedalnaggar
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Lecture (1)

Introduction to Computer Hardware and


Architecture
Lecture Overview:

• This lecture provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts

of computer hardware and architecture. Students will gain an

understanding of the basic components of a computer system, their

functions, and how they work together to execute software. The

focus will be on understanding the structure, design, and interaction

of various hardware components within a computer.


Lecture Content

1. What is Computer Hardware?


• Definition: Hardware refers to the physical components of a
computer that you can touch and feel.
• Importance: Hardware is the foundation on which software runs,
and all digital processes depend on it.
• Examples: CPU, memory (RAM), storage devices (HDD/SSD),
input/output devices (keyboard, mouse, display).
2. The Basic Components of a Computer System

• Central Processing Unit (CPU):


o Brain of the computer, responsible for
executing instructions.
o Consists of Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
(performs calculations) and Control Unit
(directs operations).
• Memory:
o RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary
storage used for active data.
o ROM (Read-Only Memory): Permanent
storage used for firmware and essential
• Storage:
o Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Magnetic storage, slower and
larger.
o Solid State Drive (SSD): Faster, more durable, but generally
smaller in capacity.
• Input Devices:
o Devices used to enter data into the computer (keyboard,
mouse, scanner).
• Output Devices:
o Devices used to send data out of the computer (monitor,
printer, speakers).
3. Computer Architecture

• Definition: Computer architecture refers to the conceptual design and


functional operation of a computer system.
• Key Aspects:
o Instruction Set Architecture (ISA): The set of commands that the CPU
understands.
o Instruction Pipeline: Technique used in modern processors to increase
instruction throughput.
o Memory Hierarchy: The organization of various types of memory, such
as registers, cache, RAM, and storage.
4. The Von Neumann Model

• Basis for most modern computer architecture.


• Features:
o Shared memory for storing both data and
instructions.
o Sequential processing of instructions.
o Consists of Input → Processor → Memory
→ Output.
5. The Importance of Buses in Computer Architecture

• System Bus: Used to transfer data between the CPU,


memory, and peripherals.
• Types of Buses:
o Address Bus: Carries the address to access memory.
o Data Bus: Transfers actual data between components.
o Control Bus: Transmits control signals between
components.
6. Primary and Secondary Storage

• Primary Storage (RAM):


o Fast, temporary storage for active applications and data.
• Secondary Storage:
o Long-term storage (HDD, SSD, USB drives, etc.).
7. Input/Output (I/O) Devices

• How computers interact with the external


environment.
• Types:
o Human-Computer Interface: Keyboard, mouse,
touchscreen.
o Peripheral Devices: Printers, scanners, external
storage.
o Network I/O: Ethernet cards, wireless adapters.
8. Input Devices: 9.
Output Devices:

• Keyboard: Input for text and • Monitor: Visual output.


commands.
• Printer: Hardcopy
• Mouse: Pointer control. output.
• Scanner: Converts physical • Speakers: Audio
documents into digital form. output.
10. Data Communication in Computers

• Data transmission between devices, over networks.


• Key terms:
o Bit: The smallest unit of data.
o Byte: 8 bits.
o Bandwidth: The rate at which data is transferred.
• Overview of Computer Performance
• Clock Speed: Measured in GHz, dictates the speed at which
instructions are processed.
• Cores: Multiple cores improve parallel processing.
• Cache: Smaller, faster memory close to the CPU for frequently
accessed data.
• Instruction Set: Determines the types of instructions the CPU can
execute.
12. Types of Computer Architectures

• Harvard Architecture: Separate memory for data and instructions.


• Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC): Uses instructions that
can perform complex tasks in one step.
• Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC): Uses simple
instructions, allowing for faster execution.
13. Performance Metrics

• MIPS: Millions of instructions per second.


• GHz: Frequency of clock cycles.

• Instruction Per Cycle (IPC): The number of instructions a CPU can


execute per cycle.
14. The Role of the Operating System

• Acts as an interface between hardware and software.


• Manages hardware resources (CPU, memory, storage).
• Provides services like process management, file system
management, and device management.
15. The Future of Computer Hardware

• Emerging trends:
• Quantum computing, neuromorphic computing,
and edge computing.

• Miniaturization and advances in


semiconductor technology.
Lecture Summary:

• In this lecture, we explored the fundamental components of


computer hardware, their roles, and how they interact within the
architecture. From CPUs and memory to I/O devices and storage,
understanding these basics is crucial to grasping the operation of
computers. Furthermore, we delved into key architectural
principles such as the Von Neumann model, instruction sets, and
data buses, which are foundational to modern computing.

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