ISF DP Computer Science

Computer Organization #

TermMeaning
Central processing unit (CPU)The part of a computer that performs the majority of the processing and calculation tasks.
Arithmetic logic unit (ALU)The part of the CPU responsible for performing arithmetic and logical operations.
Control unit (CU)The part of the CPU responsible for coordinating and controlling the other components of the CPU.
RegistersSmall areas of memory within the CPU used to store and manipulate data quickly.
Primary memoryThe main memory used by a computer to store data and program instructions that are currently being used.
Random access memory (RAM)A type of primary memory that is volatile and can be read from and written to by the CPU.
Read-only memory (ROM)A type of primary memory that is non-volatile and contains instructions that cannot be altered.
Cache memoryA small amount of high-speed memory used to store frequently accessed data for faster access by the CPU.
Machine instruction cycleThe process of fetching, decoding, executing, and storing machine instructions within the CPU.
Secondary memoryLong-term storage used to store data and programs that are not currently being used.
Operating systemSoftware that manages the resources and activities of a computer, and provides a user interface for interacting with the computer.
Application softwareSoftware designed for specific tasks or purposes, such as word processing, spreadsheets, or graphic design.
Binary representationA method of representing data using only two digits, 0 and 1.
BitA single unit of binary data, either 0 or 1.
ByteA group of 8 bits, used to represent a larger unit of data.
Boolean operatorsLogical operators used to combine or manipulate binary data, including AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, and XOR.
Truth tablesTables used to represent the outputs of Boolean expressions for every possible combination of inputs.
Logic gatesElectronic components used to implement Boolean expressions and perform logical operations.
Denary/DecimalA base-10 numbering system, used to represent decimal numbers.
HexadecimalA base-16 numbering system, used to represent binary data more efficiently.
Graphical user interface (GUI)A user interface that allows users to interact with a computer using graphical elements, such as icons, windows, and menus.
Logic diagramsDiagrams that use logic gates and Boolean expressions to represent and solve problems.
ANDA Boolean operator that returns true if and only if both of its inputs are true.
ORA Boolean operator that returns true if at least one of its inputs is true.
NOTA Boolean operator that negates the input, returning true if the input is false, and vice versa.
NANDA Boolean operator that returns false if and only if both of its inputs are true.
NORA Boolean operator that returns true if both of its inputs are false.
XORA Boolean operator that returns true if and only if exactly one of its inputs is true.
Thinking logicallyA problem-solving approach that involves breaking down problems into smaller parts and using reasoning to arrive at solutions.
Connecting computational thinking and program designThe process of using computational thinking principles to design effective and efficient programs.
VolatileMemory that loses its contents when power is removed.
Non-volatileMemory that retains its contents even when power is removed.
Data busThe communication pathway between the CPU and other components that transfers data.
Address busThe communication pathway between the CPU and other components that carries memory addresses.
StringA sequence of characters used to represent text in a computer program.
IntegerA whole number used to represent numerical values in a computer program.
CharactersSingle letters, digits, symbols, or other marks used in a computer program.
UnicodeA character encoding standard that allows computers to represent and manipulate text from different writing systems.
ErgonomicsThe study of designing equipment and devices that are comfortable and efficient for human use.
AccessibilityThe degree to which a system or device can be used by people with disabilities or special needs.