Detailed Report on Computer System Architecture and Maintenance
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This report provides a comprehensive overview of computer system architecture, beginning with an identification of the main subsystems of a computer, including the CPU, main memory, system bus, and input/output subsystem, and explaining their organization and connections. It delves into the purpose and operation of the Central Processing Unit (CPU), discussing the roles of the Control Unit and Arithmetic Logic Unit. The report then describes various operating systems, detailing their purpose, use, and hardware requirements, along with key architectural features. Furthermore, it explores the relationships between hardware and network addresses, including their use in networking devices. The report also covers the setup and configuration of hardware and software systems for network connectivity and concludes with information gathering methods for troubleshooting hardware, software, and networking issues, as well as documentation of maintenance activities for computer hardware and software. Desklib provides this assignment as a valuable resource for students studying computer architecture.
COMPUTER SYSTEM
ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction......................................................................................................................................1
Lo1................................................................................................................................................... 2
P1 identify the main subsystems of a computer and explain how they are organized and
connected..................................................................................................................................... 2
P2 Explain the purpose of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and include details on its
operation...................................................................................................................................... 7
Lo2................................................................................................................................................... 8
P3 Describe a range of different operating systems including the purpose, use and hardware
requirements of each....................................................................................................................8
P4 Discuss the key features associated with the architecture of an operating system...............11
Lo3................................................................................................................................................. 13
P5 Explain the relationships between hardware and network addresses including their use with
regards to networking devices and components........................................................................13
P6 Setup, configure and document appropriate hardware and software systems to establish
computer based network connectivity....................................................................................... 16
Lo4................................................................................................................................................. 17
P7 Use information gathering methods to assess troubleshoot and document solutions to a
number of different technical hardware, software and networking issues................................17
P8 Conduct and document a range of maintenance activities with regards to computer
hardware and software............................................................................................................... 19
Conclusion..................................................................................................................................... 24
References......................................................................................................................................25
Introduction......................................................................................................................................1
Lo1................................................................................................................................................... 2
P1 identify the main subsystems of a computer and explain how they are organized and
connected..................................................................................................................................... 2
P2 Explain the purpose of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and include details on its
operation...................................................................................................................................... 7
Lo2................................................................................................................................................... 8
P3 Describe a range of different operating systems including the purpose, use and hardware
requirements of each....................................................................................................................8
P4 Discuss the key features associated with the architecture of an operating system...............11
Lo3................................................................................................................................................. 13
P5 Explain the relationships between hardware and network addresses including their use with
regards to networking devices and components........................................................................13
P6 Setup, configure and document appropriate hardware and software systems to establish
computer based network connectivity....................................................................................... 16
Lo4................................................................................................................................................. 17
P7 Use information gathering methods to assess troubleshoot and document solutions to a
number of different technical hardware, software and networking issues................................17
P8 Conduct and document a range of maintenance activities with regards to computer
hardware and software............................................................................................................... 19
Conclusion..................................................................................................................................... 24
References......................................................................................................................................25
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Subsystems of a computer................................................................................................2
Figure 2: Von Neumann Architecture............................................................................................. 3
Figure 3: Memory hierarchy............................................................................................................ 5
Figure 4: System Bus;......................................................................................................................5
Figure 5: Screen shot of Screenlets of Ubuntu................................................................................9
Figure 6: Screenshot of window 10............................................................................................... 10
Figure 7: Operating Systems Architecture....................................................................................11
Figure 8: MAC address..................................................................................................................14
Figure 9: IP address (command prompt)....................................................................................... 15
Figure 10: Setting Up a Computer network...................................................................................16
Figure 11: File explorer in Start menu...........................................................................................19
Figure 12: Local Disk (C :)............................................................................................................20
Figure 13: Optimizing drive.......................................................................................................... 20
Figure 14: Selection of the drive for optimization.........................................................................21
Figure 15: fragmentation Percentage.............................................................................................21
Figure 16: Defragmentation process..............................................................................................22
Figure 17: Browser’s history clean-up..........................................................................................23
Figure 1: Subsystems of a computer................................................................................................2
Figure 2: Von Neumann Architecture............................................................................................. 3
Figure 3: Memory hierarchy............................................................................................................ 5
Figure 4: System Bus;......................................................................................................................5
Figure 5: Screen shot of Screenlets of Ubuntu................................................................................9
Figure 6: Screenshot of window 10............................................................................................... 10
Figure 7: Operating Systems Architecture....................................................................................11
Figure 8: MAC address..................................................................................................................14
Figure 9: IP address (command prompt)....................................................................................... 15
Figure 10: Setting Up a Computer network...................................................................................16
Figure 11: File explorer in Start menu...........................................................................................19
Figure 12: Local Disk (C :)............................................................................................................20
Figure 13: Optimizing drive.......................................................................................................... 20
Figure 14: Selection of the drive for optimization.........................................................................21
Figure 15: fragmentation Percentage.............................................................................................21
Figure 16: Defragmentation process..............................................................................................22
Figure 17: Browser’s history clean-up..........................................................................................23
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Introduction
Computer architecture is the method and rules through which function, organization and
implementation of computer system is explained. This report discusses about computer
subsystems that forms the overall computer system. The report discusses about Central
Processing Unit and Operating System that are the major computer components. Every computer
or networking device has one logical and physical, address, this report discusses about their
relation and comparison. At last, the report discusses regarding the maintenance task that a user
must perform in regular basis for proper maintenance of the overall computer system and its
elements.
1
Computer architecture is the method and rules through which function, organization and
implementation of computer system is explained. This report discusses about computer
subsystems that forms the overall computer system. The report discusses about Central
Processing Unit and Operating System that are the major computer components. Every computer
or networking device has one logical and physical, address, this report discusses about their
relation and comparison. At last, the report discusses regarding the maintenance task that a user
must perform in regular basis for proper maintenance of the overall computer system and its
elements.
1
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Lo1
P1 identify the main subsystems of a computer and explain how they are organized and
connected
A computer system must effectively function considering it four main parts or subsystem.
Subsystem is referred to a device or unit which is a part of larger system like that of a computer.
In case any part malfunctions it may result in discontinuity of the services or hampering the
functionality of the other devices.
A computer system can be broadly divided into four subsystem or categories: the CPU, main
memory, system bus and input/ output subsystem (Comer, 2017).
Figure 1: Subsystems of a computer
Central processing Unit: The CPU is often referred as the computer’s brain. This is responsible
for processing various complex functions within a computer. The chip of CPU collects various
instructions from software applications and system board. A CPU is capable of processing data
less than a millisecond. This electronics circuit in the computer fetches input command or
instructions from memory unit, then performs various arithmetic and logic operations
accordingly and ultimately stores the processed data back in the memory.
Components of CPU
From the Von Neumann Architecture it can be stated that the main component of the CPU is the
ALU and control Unit.
2
P1 identify the main subsystems of a computer and explain how they are organized and
connected
A computer system must effectively function considering it four main parts or subsystem.
Subsystem is referred to a device or unit which is a part of larger system like that of a computer.
In case any part malfunctions it may result in discontinuity of the services or hampering the
functionality of the other devices.
A computer system can be broadly divided into four subsystem or categories: the CPU, main
memory, system bus and input/ output subsystem (Comer, 2017).
Figure 1: Subsystems of a computer
Central processing Unit: The CPU is often referred as the computer’s brain. This is responsible
for processing various complex functions within a computer. The chip of CPU collects various
instructions from software applications and system board. A CPU is capable of processing data
less than a millisecond. This electronics circuit in the computer fetches input command or
instructions from memory unit, then performs various arithmetic and logic operations
accordingly and ultimately stores the processed data back in the memory.
Components of CPU
From the Von Neumann Architecture it can be stated that the main component of the CPU is the
ALU and control Unit.
2
Figure 2: Von Neumann Architecture
Control Unit: This Unit is an internal CPU part which operates mostly to co-ordinates
instructions and the flow of data between the Processor along with other computer components.
CU has the main function to direct the operations of CPU by sending both control and timing
signals.
Arithmetic Logic Unit: ALU is referred to the internal electronic circuitry within the CPU that
performs every arithmetic and logical operations. ALU receives three kind of inputs.
Control signal from CU
Data that is to be operated
Information of Status from previous operations.
Operation of all the instructions led to output, this output result contains data which is stored in
memory and the information of the status is stored in CPU’s internal registers.
Working of a CPU: Every CPUs despite of its type or origin tends to performs the basic
instruction cycle which has three Steps: Fetch, decode and execute (Harris and Harris, 2015)
3
Control Unit: This Unit is an internal CPU part which operates mostly to co-ordinates
instructions and the flow of data between the Processor along with other computer components.
CU has the main function to direct the operations of CPU by sending both control and timing
signals.
Arithmetic Logic Unit: ALU is referred to the internal electronic circuitry within the CPU that
performs every arithmetic and logical operations. ALU receives three kind of inputs.
Control signal from CU
Data that is to be operated
Information of Status from previous operations.
Operation of all the instructions led to output, this output result contains data which is stored in
memory and the information of the status is stored in CPU’s internal registers.
Working of a CPU: Every CPUs despite of its type or origin tends to performs the basic
instruction cycle which has three Steps: Fetch, decode and execute (Harris and Harris, 2015)
3
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Fetch: Number of instructions forms a program. And a memory stores various programs. During
fetch, CPU of a system reads that instruction which need to be operated of a specific memory
address. Program counter or PC keeps record of the address of particular instructions.
Decode: Instruction decoder is a circuitry that is responsible for decoding the instructions which
is fetched from memory. The decoded instructions form various signals which control other CPU
areas.
Execute: Lastly, CPU must executes those instruction.
Main Memory: The computer’s main memory includes collection of various storage locations
having unique identifier known as address. Data is transferred from or to memory in Bits groups
called words. Main memory is also referred as RAM or Random access memory. This part of the
computer is meant for storing, software applications, operating system software and information
related to CPU so that it access can be faster while performing a tasks.
Type of main memory
The main memory can be categories as RAM and ROM.
RAM: Random Access Memory is a computer memory that is base on semiconductor. RAM
basically is use for storing data and program code. The CPU can read, write access the data
stored in RAM. This memory is volatile in nature, thus it cannot be recovered in case of
discontinued power supply. The Ram can be further classified as Static Ram and Dynamic RAM.
ROM: Read Only Memory is also a semiconductor based memory that is responsible for storing
program code. This code can only be read not write by the CPU (Organick, 2014. ). Unlike
RAM, ROM is non-volatile thus even in case of power cut the data or program does not lose.
ROM can be classified as PROM or Programmable read-only memory, EPROM or Erasable
programmable read-only memory and EEPROM or Electrically erasable programmable read-
only memory.
Memory hierarchy
A Computer uses various types of memory, a user need memory which is fast as well s
inexpensive. Thus memory hierarchy is created.
4
fetch, CPU of a system reads that instruction which need to be operated of a specific memory
address. Program counter or PC keeps record of the address of particular instructions.
Decode: Instruction decoder is a circuitry that is responsible for decoding the instructions which
is fetched from memory. The decoded instructions form various signals which control other CPU
areas.
Execute: Lastly, CPU must executes those instruction.
Main Memory: The computer’s main memory includes collection of various storage locations
having unique identifier known as address. Data is transferred from or to memory in Bits groups
called words. Main memory is also referred as RAM or Random access memory. This part of the
computer is meant for storing, software applications, operating system software and information
related to CPU so that it access can be faster while performing a tasks.
Type of main memory
The main memory can be categories as RAM and ROM.
RAM: Random Access Memory is a computer memory that is base on semiconductor. RAM
basically is use for storing data and program code. The CPU can read, write access the data
stored in RAM. This memory is volatile in nature, thus it cannot be recovered in case of
discontinued power supply. The Ram can be further classified as Static Ram and Dynamic RAM.
ROM: Read Only Memory is also a semiconductor based memory that is responsible for storing
program code. This code can only be read not write by the CPU (Organick, 2014. ). Unlike
RAM, ROM is non-volatile thus even in case of power cut the data or program does not lose.
ROM can be classified as PROM or Programmable read-only memory, EPROM or Erasable
programmable read-only memory and EEPROM or Electrically erasable programmable read-
only memory.
Memory hierarchy
A Computer uses various types of memory, a user need memory which is fast as well s
inexpensive. Thus memory hierarchy is created.
4
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Figure 3: Memory hierarchy
Input/output Subsystem: In computer system, the input/output subsystem is collection of
various devices. With this subsystem computer is allowed to interact with outside world and for
storing various data and programs. Input devices are mostly the keyboards, card readers, mouse,
scanners, and touch screens etc which helps in data entry. However, output devices like printers,
plotters, monitors, and speakers, they help in getting information from computer. I/O devices are
sub-divided as storage and non-storage devices.
System Bus: System Bus is one of the significant subsystems of a computer system. It is a
pathway which is composed various cables and connectors that are used for transmission of data
between CPU and main memory. Communication path is provided by the system bus for both
data as well as control signals that are trying to move between major computer components.
Figure 4: System Bus;
5
Input/output Subsystem: In computer system, the input/output subsystem is collection of
various devices. With this subsystem computer is allowed to interact with outside world and for
storing various data and programs. Input devices are mostly the keyboards, card readers, mouse,
scanners, and touch screens etc which helps in data entry. However, output devices like printers,
plotters, monitors, and speakers, they help in getting information from computer. I/O devices are
sub-divided as storage and non-storage devices.
System Bus: System Bus is one of the significant subsystems of a computer system. It is a
pathway which is composed various cables and connectors that are used for transmission of data
between CPU and main memory. Communication path is provided by the system bus for both
data as well as control signals that are trying to move between major computer components.
Figure 4: System Bus;
5
Types of system bus and their function:
Control bus: This bus is meant for carrying signal of control, coordination and timing for
managing e different functions within the system.
Address bus: The main function of this bus is to specify the memory locations for data
transferred.
Data bus: This is a bidirectional path that carries data between processor, memory and
peripherals.
The dimension and design of system bus is on the basis of processor technology on which a
motherboard is designed.
6
Control bus: This bus is meant for carrying signal of control, coordination and timing for
managing e different functions within the system.
Address bus: The main function of this bus is to specify the memory locations for data
transferred.
Data bus: This is a bidirectional path that carries data between processor, memory and
peripherals.
The dimension and design of system bus is on the basis of processor technology on which a
motherboard is designed.
6
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P2 Explain the purpose of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and include details on its operation
The CPU or the Central Processing Unit is central component of a computer system. This
component is responsible for every single operation and function done by a computer or
computing devices. A CPU handles every instruction received by it from either
hardware or software. Purpose of the CPU installation in a computer system is that it acts as a
brain that performs different program instructions. Processor is mainly designed for carrying out
meticulous instruction set.
How CPU works?
CPU is located on the computer’s motherboard. Programs and Hardware components installed in
the computer need to transmit data via CPU before carrying out any functions. Whenever a
program, function, or a data is called, the CPU has the responsibility to pulls that from RAM and
supply it to relevant hardware for its processing. Instructions are read by the CPU related to any
task before transferring to RAM again. CPU receives instruction related to data transmission and
calculations. System bus trails the flow of data. CPU ensures guidance of data using the system
bus. CPU is responsible for making sure that correct order is followed for data transmission.
Operation of CPU
Fundamental operation CPU is execution of stored instructions in proper sequence. Instructions
which need to be executed are stored in the memory of the computer system. CPU operation
includes fetch, decode and execute stage, this are cooperatively called as instruction cycle.Once
the instruction is executed, the complete processes replicate itself, for the next instruction
through instruction cycle (White et al, 2017). Generally fetching is the next instruction in the
sequence due to PC’s or program counter incremented value. In case of execution of a jump
instruction, the PC modifies to hold the instruction address which was hoped to and execution of
the program continues. In complex CPUs, numerous instructions get concurrently fetched,
decoded or executed.
7
The CPU or the Central Processing Unit is central component of a computer system. This
component is responsible for every single operation and function done by a computer or
computing devices. A CPU handles every instruction received by it from either
hardware or software. Purpose of the CPU installation in a computer system is that it acts as a
brain that performs different program instructions. Processor is mainly designed for carrying out
meticulous instruction set.
How CPU works?
CPU is located on the computer’s motherboard. Programs and Hardware components installed in
the computer need to transmit data via CPU before carrying out any functions. Whenever a
program, function, or a data is called, the CPU has the responsibility to pulls that from RAM and
supply it to relevant hardware for its processing. Instructions are read by the CPU related to any
task before transferring to RAM again. CPU receives instruction related to data transmission and
calculations. System bus trails the flow of data. CPU ensures guidance of data using the system
bus. CPU is responsible for making sure that correct order is followed for data transmission.
Operation of CPU
Fundamental operation CPU is execution of stored instructions in proper sequence. Instructions
which need to be executed are stored in the memory of the computer system. CPU operation
includes fetch, decode and execute stage, this are cooperatively called as instruction cycle.Once
the instruction is executed, the complete processes replicate itself, for the next instruction
through instruction cycle (White et al, 2017). Generally fetching is the next instruction in the
sequence due to PC’s or program counter incremented value. In case of execution of a jump
instruction, the PC modifies to hold the instruction address which was hoped to and execution of
the program continues. In complex CPUs, numerous instructions get concurrently fetched,
decoded or executed.
7
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Lo2
P3 Describe a range of different operating systems including the purpose, use and hardware
requirements of each
Operating system
OS or operating system is referred to software present in computer’s hard drive. OS facilitate
communication of the computer hardware and work along with software. Without an operating
system, both computer and the software programs are worthless. OS perform different task
associated with computer system such as, controlling peripheral devices, memory management,
handling the input and output devices and also file management (Anderson and Roscoe, 2016).
Operating system types
Common desktop operating systems are OS X, Windows and Linux. However, all the OS are
different from each other but they offer graphical user interface, and folders/files of the computer
are managed. OS supports program installation and running which is written exclusively for OS.
Windows and Linux is installed in standard hardware of a computer, OS X is designed to run
exclusively for Apple’s system
Ubuntu: Ubuntu is open source and free kind of operating system. It has three variations:
Ubuntu Desktop that is compatibles for personal computers, Ubuntu Server is
for servers and for Internet of things devices Ubuntu Core. This OS is produced by Canonical and
Canonical offers guaranteed and free security updates.
Features: Default Ubuntu installation contain a very wide range of software
including Thunderbird, Firefox, and LibreOffice and along with lightweight games. Additional
packages of software are effectively accessible to the Ubuntu Software and even
with management tool that are APT-based. Ubuntu operate under GPL or GNU and application
software that are installed is by default free software. Ubuntu installs hardware drivers which are
only in binary format.
Use of Ubuntu: it is popular due to its being User-friendly, free, no-antivirus required, high
customization can be achieved, low system requirement, and open source.
8
P3 Describe a range of different operating systems including the purpose, use and hardware
requirements of each
Operating system
OS or operating system is referred to software present in computer’s hard drive. OS facilitate
communication of the computer hardware and work along with software. Without an operating
system, both computer and the software programs are worthless. OS perform different task
associated with computer system such as, controlling peripheral devices, memory management,
handling the input and output devices and also file management (Anderson and Roscoe, 2016).
Operating system types
Common desktop operating systems are OS X, Windows and Linux. However, all the OS are
different from each other but they offer graphical user interface, and folders/files of the computer
are managed. OS supports program installation and running which is written exclusively for OS.
Windows and Linux is installed in standard hardware of a computer, OS X is designed to run
exclusively for Apple’s system
Ubuntu: Ubuntu is open source and free kind of operating system. It has three variations:
Ubuntu Desktop that is compatibles for personal computers, Ubuntu Server is
for servers and for Internet of things devices Ubuntu Core. This OS is produced by Canonical and
Canonical offers guaranteed and free security updates.
Features: Default Ubuntu installation contain a very wide range of software
including Thunderbird, Firefox, and LibreOffice and along with lightweight games. Additional
packages of software are effectively accessible to the Ubuntu Software and even
with management tool that are APT-based. Ubuntu operate under GPL or GNU and application
software that are installed is by default free software. Ubuntu installs hardware drivers which are
only in binary format.
Use of Ubuntu: it is popular due to its being User-friendly, free, no-antivirus required, high
customization can be achieved, low system requirement, and open source.
8
System requirement: 2 GHz dual core processor, 2 GB RAM, 25 GB of hard-drive space,
1024x768 VGA screen resolution, Internet access.
Figure 5: Screen shot of Screenlets of Ubuntu
Windows 10: It is the version of operating system that is released and developed by Microsoft.
Microsoft is responsible altering and modifying program code. It is considered as one of the most
commonly used OS. This OS harmonizes the experience of a user and functionality among
different device.
9
1024x768 VGA screen resolution, Internet access.
Figure 5: Screen shot of Screenlets of Ubuntu
Windows 10: It is the version of operating system that is released and developed by Microsoft.
Microsoft is responsible altering and modifying program code. It is considered as one of the most
commonly used OS. This OS harmonizes the experience of a user and functionality among
different device.
9
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