Computer Organization
Computer architecture
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
Students should be able to reproduce a block diagram showing the relationship between the elements of the CPU, input and output and storage. The memory address register (MAR) and memory data register (MDR) are the only ones that need to be included.
2.1.2: Describe primary memory.
Distinguish between random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM), and their use in primary memory.
2.1.3: Explain the use of cache memory
Students should be able to explain the effect of cache memory in speeding up the system as well as being able to explain how it is used.
2.1.4: Explain the machine instruction cycle
This should include the role of data bus and address bus.
Secondary memory
2.1.5: Identify the need for persistent storage.
Persistent storage is needed to store data in a non-volatile device during and after the running of a program.
Considerations:
- Consequences of data loss.
- If there are no consequences of data loss, why is it stored?
- There is no such thing as persistent storage.
- An appreciation of the issues related to both the ever increasing amount of data and a need to retain it.
Operating systems and application systems
2.1.6: Describe the main functions of an operating system
This is confined to a single-user operating system. Technical details are not needed. For example, memory management should be described but how this is handled in a multitasking environment is not expected.
2.1.7: Outline the use of a range of application software
Application software should include word processors, spreadsheets, database management systems, email, web browsers, computer-aided design (CAD) and graphic processing software.
2.1.8: Identify common features of applications
Include toolbars, menus, dialogue boxes, graphical user interface (GUI) components. Students should understand that some features are provided by the application software and some by the operating system.
Considerations:
- This improves usability for a wide range of users.
- An appreciation of the improvements associated with developments in application software.
Binary representation
2.1.9: Define the terms: bit, byte, binary, denary/decimal, hexadecimal
2.1.10: Outline the way in which data is represented in the computer
Include strings, integers, characters and colours. This should include considering the space taken by data, for instance the relation between the hexadecimal representation of colours and the number of colours available.
Considerations:
- Does binary represent an example of a lingua franca?
- Compare the number of characters needed in the Latin alphabet with those in Arabic and Asian languages to understand the need for Unicode.
Simple logic gates
2.1.11: Define the Boolean operators: AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR and XOR
Note: Approved notation sheet. 
2.1.12: Construct truth tables using the above operators
Not more than three inputs are used.
2.1.13: Construct a logic diagram using AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR and XOR gates
Problems will be limited to an output dependent on no more than three inputs. The gate should be written as a circle with the name of the gate inside it as shown to the right.
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