Von Neumann Architecture : Assignment

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Question 1 Tasks

There are ten (10) tasks, one for each week: the tasks are detailed
below. There is a table to complete for each task. Please fill in the
information required.
Note: Each resource summary should be around 200-300 words.
Week 1
The text discusses the elements of modern computing architecture however is largely silent
on the individuals who played a role in its development. Find and summarise a resource that
describes ONE such individual. The individual should have had a significant influence on the
development of computers and/or components of modern computing architecture.
Schalk,Z 2013, 'Computing Beyond the Turing-von Neumann Architecture. Available
through <https://blogs.commons.georgetown.edu/cctp-797-fall2013/archives/194>.
[Accessed on 14th September 2017]
This blog givens knowledge on Von Neumann architecture which is a structure that
includes various parts of a computer that includes a CPU, memory and other devices
like the input and out put device. In order to make an efficient use of these elements
all these were connected together by using a system bus. It is an effective and
simple program as operating it was too easy for different users. In addition to this
information regarding the most important component which is CPU is considered as
the most import one as it includes register which has the capacity to manipulate the
present computer program. Modern computers has the capacity to perform various
task at the same time. The major thing with this structure was that programs could be
saved in similar manner as in the system of memory. This function enables programs
to load self defining codes. Other components of this architecture were:
 Memory – It is the place where all the data is saved for future use. It helps
user in getting access to the program as and when require.
 Input – It is the medium through which information is given in the computer as
to get results it is necessary that data is first input in the computer.
 Output – It consist of devises that helps in taking out the information from the
computer in different forms like printer which given a hard copy of data and
monitor which provide visual information.
The given structure was given by John von Neumann in 1945. He was a
mathematician and a physicist. This design was considered to be a simple one in
comparison to that of Harvard architecture machine. It helped in advancement of
programming as through this modern construction of computers drawback of being
fixed programmed which were not multi tasking.
Week 2
The text discusses the components and activities of operating systems however is largely
silent on the individuals who played a role in their development. Find and summarise a
resource that describes ONE such individual. The individual should have had a significant
influence on the writing or development of operating systems.
Ashutosh, K 2017,'Operating Systems You May Not Have Heard Of (But Should).
Available through <http://www.hongkiat.com/blog/lesser-known-operating-systems/>.
[Accessed on 14th September 2017]
The chosen blog is efficient enough as it provide all the required information regarding
operating system. It is one of the most crucial part of any computer. In order to run
different applications and software it is very necessary to have a particular operating
system which can help in continuing the program. It is a conduct that part which
recognizes the command given by different input devises like keyboard and further

provides result on the output devise which is desktop. It also makes sure that when
distinct programs are running all together they do not get mix with one another and
continue to run in software separately. Apart from this one major role perform by
operating system is that it makes sure that no unauthorized user get access to the
system which is done by keeping security in form of user id or passwords. There are
different types of this method like DOS, OS/2 and windows. These are mostly present
in the personal computers. Each component is described blow in detail:
 I/O management – it helps in the administration of computer memory with an
assistance of cache and buffering.
 Networking – connection between various users of computer is kept by this
system.
The given blog discuss that how once a particular system is chosen it can be determine
that what all applications can be run on that specific PC. This method can be further
classified into various categories:
 Facilitates multi user as a number of users can use the program all together.
 It helps in working on different computers at the same time
 Helps in getting different work done from single unit
Different activities which are performed by it is also discussed by the chosen resource
which shows that author has given a deep knowledge. The text explains the different
activities performed by operating system which are given below:
 Helps in managing processor
 Management of various files
 Administration of memory
 Safety
 Aids in identifying various errors in system
 Monitor the results of system
 Keep balance in user and use of software
The first system was given by General Motors in 1956. It supported the single frame
IBM computer. His contribution was vital as the initial idea was given by him and than
further modifications were done.