Computer organization

Computer Organization

How does a computer actually work? How do they transform what you type into a program that shows cute cat pictures?

Big ideas in computer organization

Layer 1: the information layer

• Binary values and number systems
• Data representation

Layer 2: The hardware layer

• Gates and Circuits
• Computing components

IB standards related to computer organizations

• 2.1.1 Outline the architecture of the central processing unit (CPU) and the functions of the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and the control unit (CU) and the registers within the CPU. Level: 2
• 2.1.2 Describe primary memory. Level: 2
• 2.1.3 Explain the use of cache memory. Level: 3
• 2.1.4 Explain the machine instruction cycle. Level: 3
• 2.1.5 Identify the need for persistent storage. Level: 2
• 2.1.6 Describe the main functions of an operating system. Level: 2
• 2.1.7 Outline the use of a range of application software. Level: 2
• 2.1.8 Identify common features of applications. Level: 2
• 2.1.9 Define the terms: bit, byte, binary, denary/decimal, hexadecimal. Level: 1
• 2.1.10 Outline the way in which data is represented in the computer. Level: 2
• 2.1.11 Define the Boolean operators: AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR and XOR. Level: 1
• 2.1.12 Construct truth tables using the above operators. Level: 3
• 2.1.13 Construct a logic diagram using AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR and XOR gates. Level: 3