Section 2: Computer Systems Organization

In this section, the physical components of a computer system are examined and placed in context, including memory, storage, the Central processing Unit, Arithmetic/Logic Unit (ALU), and Control Unit (CU). Both Von Neumann and non-Von Neumann architectures are also described.

Section Objectives

After completing this section, students will be able to

• List and define the physical components of a computer system.
• Define and describe the roles of Memory and Cache.
• Define and give examples of Input and Output.
• List and describe technologies of Mass Storage.
• Define and describe the characteristics and capabilities of the ALU and CU.
• Describe and give examples of Computer Architecture.

Required Reading

• Chapter 5 in the textbook.