UNIT I – DIGITAL COMPUTERS AND
MICROCOMPUTER ORGANIZATION
1. Digital Computers
A digital computer processes data represented in binary form (0s and 1s). It performs
arithmetic and logical operations using electronic circuits. Digital computers are fast,
accurate, and capable of storing large amounts of data. Examples include desktop PCs,
laptops, and embedded systems.
2. Microcomputer Organization
A microcomputer is a small computer that uses a microprocessor as its CPU. It includes
the CPU, memory, input/output devices, and buses for data transfer.
3. Block Diagram of a Microcomputer
Components:
1. CPU – Performs calculations and controls all activities.
2. Memory – Stores data and instructions.
3. Input Devices – Used to provide data to the computer.
4. Output Devices – Used to display results.
5. System Bus – Connects CPU, memory, and I/O devices (Address, Data, and Control
Buses).
4. Computer Languages
There are three levels of computer languages:
• Machine Language – Binary code directly understood by the CPU.
• Assembly Language – Uses mnemonics like MOV, ADD, etc.
• High-Level Language – Human-readable programs like C or Python.
5. Microprocessor Architecture and Its Operations
A microprocessor is an integrated circuit that performs CPU functions. It includes ALU,
Control Unit, Registers, Program Counter, Stack Pointer, and Instruction Decoder.
6. Microprocessor Initiated Operations
The CPU initiates operations such as Opcode Fetch, Memory Read/Write, I/O Read/Write,
and Interrupt Acknowledge. These operations are essential for executing instructions.
7. 8085 Bus Organization
The 8085 microprocessor uses three buses:
• Address Bus (16-bit) – Carries memory addresses.
• Data Bus (8-bit) – Transfers data between CPU and memory.
• Control Bus – Carries control signals like RD, WR, IO/M, and ALE.
8. Internal Data Operations and 8085 Registers
Registers in 8085 include:
• Accumulator (A)
• B, C, D, E, H, L Registers
• Program Counter (PC)
• Stack Pointer (SP)
• Temporary & Flag Registers
The Flag register shows ALU results (Sign, Zero, Auxiliary Carry, Parity, Carry).
9. Peripheral or External Initiated Operations
External devices can interact with CPU using signals such as:
• Interrupt – Requests CPU attention.
• Reset – Restarts the microprocessor.
• Hold – Allows external device to take bus control.
• Ready – Indicates device is ready for communication.
Summary
Digital computers process binary data using microprocessors. The 8085 is an 8-bit
processor with a 16-bit address bus, capable of internal and external data operations, and
communicates via Address, Data, and Control buses.