What is computer architecture and which computer architecture is operated on most of the computer????
computer architecture is concerned with the structure and behavior of the computer as seen by the user.
It includes information, formats, instruction set, and techniques for addressing memory. The architecture design of a computer system is concerned with the specification of various functional modules, such as processors and memories, and structuring them together in a computer system.
Two basic types of computer architecture:-
- Von Neumann architecture
- Harvard architecture
Von Neumann architecture
von Neumann architecture describes a general frame-work, or structure, that computer hardware, programming, and data should follow. The vast majority of computers in use today operate according to the von Neumann architecture.
- Arithmetic/Logical unit: This unit performs the computer’s computational and logical functions.
2. Control unit: A control unit that directs other components of the computer to perform certain actions, such as directing the fetching of data or instructions from memory to be processed by the ALU.
3. Input/Output devices or man-machine interface: keyboard for taking input and monitor for displaying output.
Due to integrated circuitry and miniaturization, the ALU and Control Unit has been integrated into the same microprocessor “chip”, becoming an integrated part of the computer’s central processing unit (CPU).
An example of computer architecture based on von Neumann architecture is the desktop personal computer.
Harvard Architecture
The Harvard architecture uses physically separate storage and signal pathways for their instruction and data. The term originated from the Harward Mark I relay-based computer, which stores instructions on punch tape (24-bits wide) and data in relay latches (23- digits wide).
It contrasts with von Neumann architecture where both the program instruction and data share the same pathways and memory.
Examples of Harvard architecture is the Microcontroller( single-chip microcomputer) based computer system and DSP (Digital Signal Processor) based computer system.
