The CPU
The CPU is the heart of the computer system.
Arithmetic and Logic Unit
ALU is part of CPU where all arithmetic and logical functions are
performed. The basic arithmetic functions include addition, subtraction,
multiplication and division. Advanced mathematical functions, such as
logarithms, trigonometry, and other specialized operations, are also
performed here. A logic function is one where numbers or conditions
are compared to each other. Example of logic functions are greater than,
less than, equal to, not equal to, greater than or equal to, and less than or
equal to.
The Control Unit
The control unit interprets any instructions it receives form
memory and directs the sequence of events necessary to execute each
instruction. The control unit also establishes the timing of these events.
It is basically the "traffic cop" of the system. For example, data can flow
both in and out of the CPU, but the control unit keeps this form
happening simultaneously in order to prevent garbled information. To
control all that is going on in a CPU, the control unit uses a system
clock, which synchronizes all tasks by sending out electrical pulses.
The Main Memory Unit (MMU)
The MMU is the internal memory of a computer, which can store
computer program instructions and data during execution. Part of the
main memory may contain permanently stored instructions that tell a
computer what to do when it is turn on, such as check to make sure that
everything is working properly and to see what peripheral equipment is
attached. Because the main memory is located inside a computer and is
linked directly to the other components of the central processing unit,
access to instructions and data is very fast.
RAM and ROM
The two most common forms of semiconductor memory are
random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM)
a. RAM: It is part of main memory where data and program
instructions are held while being manipulated or executed. This
type of memory allows you to enter data into memory (write) and
then to retrieve it form main memory (read). There are two types of
RAM, the first type is dynamic RAM that used in personal
computer, it has high density and low cost, but it must have
periodic pulses of electricity to maintain the contents of its
memory, referred to as refreshing its memory. The second type of
RAM is called static TAM(SRAM). It offers faster access times
and does not need to be refreshed. The main disadvantage is higher
cost. In either case, when the computer is shutdown, everything
stored in the RAM will be lost.
b. ROM: It can only to be read, data can not be written on ROM,
hence, the data will not be lost when the computer is shutdown.
ROM may contain information on how to start the computer and
even instructions to the entire operating system. Several types of
read-only memory can be programmed according to a user's
specifications. Programmable read-only memory (PROM) allow a
chip to be programmed by a user once, it cannot be altered further.
A type of ROM in which the contents can be changed is called
erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM). An EPROM
chip has the features of prom, but it also has a transparent quartz
window converting the internal circuity. By removing the chip
from the circuit and exposing the window to ultraviolet light; you
can erase the contents. Then, you can reprogram the chip for
another application. Another type of ROM chip is the electrically
erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). This
memory chip can be erased and reprogrammed electrically, so
there is no need to remove it from the circuit as with an EPROM.