Name: _______________________________
CS 1011 Homework #4
Due February 24, 2003

Chapter 4: Components of the System Unit


Fill In The Blank (1/2 point each)

  1. The   _______________   _______________   is a box-like case that houses the electronic components of the computer used to process data.

  2. An   ________________   ________________   is a microscopic pathway capable of carrying electrical current.

  3. _______________   _________________   is the speed at which a processor executes instructions.

  4. _______________   ________________   is a method that uses multiple processors simultaneously to execute a program.

  5. A   ________________   _______________   is an interface that connects a device to the system unit by transmitting data one bit at a time.

  6. The   _______________   _______________   is the component in the system unit that converts the wall outlet AC power into DC power.

  7. The   ________________   _______________   is the number of bits the processor can interpret and execute at a given time.

  8. (True / False) Flash memory is a volatile memory.   ______________

  9. (True / False) The ASCII coding system is capable of representing the English language.   _______________

  10. (True / False) Binary code can be used to exactly represent an analog signal.   _______________


Short Answer (1 point each)

  1. What are some of the differences between RAM and ROM? Give 2 reasons computers use both types of memory.



  2. What is the purpose of a modem? Does a modem input (to the computer) analog or digital signals? Does it output (to the phone line) analog or digital signals?



  3. Name 3 different types of dynamic RAM (DRAM), and explain how each differs from the others.



  4. What are the four steps in a machine cycle? Define each step.



  5. Define pipelining. Give an example in which pipelining could improve performance, and an example in which it could not.
    Hint: Your example does not have to be related to computers. Consider everyday tasks that consist of a several steps
    (e.g., doing laundry) in which the concept of pipelining could be applied.