CSC213 · TU past paper
Computer Architecture 2075 question paper
The complete TU 2075 exam paper for Computer Architecture (CSC213), all 12 questions with solved model answers written to the mark scheme.
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- 110 marksOverlapped Register WindowsHideAnswer
In the RISC architecture, what is meant by over lapping register window? Explain the relationship among register windows with over lapping register windows.[10]
RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture emphasizes simplicity and speed. One of its key features is the use of a large register file organized into overlapping register windows to handle procedure calls efficiently without t...
- 210 marksFlynn's ClassificationHideAnswer
Explain the Flynn's classification of computer architectures with diagrams.[10]
Flynn's classification (proposed by Michael J. Flynn in 1966) is a widely used taxonomy for categorizing computer architectures based on two independent dimensions: 1. Number of Instruction Streams - the sequence of instructions performe...
- 310 marksInstruction Level PipeliningHideAnswer
What are the different types of pipe line hazards? Explain each pipe line hazard with example.[10]
Pipelining is a technique of decomposing a sequential process into suboperations, with each subprocess being executed on a special dedicated segment that operates simultaneously with all other segments. However, certain situations arise ...
- 45 marksRegisters and memory of Basic ComputerHideAnswer
Explain the computer components. [5]
A computer is a digital system that performs various computational tasks. It is composed of several key components that work together to execute instructions and process data. --- The CPU is the brain of the computer. It performs all pro...
- 55 marksStored Program ConceptHideAnswer
Explain the store-program concept with example. [5]
The stored-program concept is the idea that both instructions (program) and data are stored together in the same memory unit of a computer. The CPU fetches instructions one by one from memory, decodes them, and executes them sequentially...
- 65 marksRISC vs CISCHideAnswer
Differentiate between CISC and RISC architectures. [5]
CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) and RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) are two fundamental processor design philosophies. Their key differences are as follows: --- CISC RISC ------ Gives emphasis on hardware Gives emphasis o...
- 75 marksInstruction Level PipeliningHideAnswer
Differentiate between instruction pipeline and an arithmetic pipeline. [5]
An instruction pipeline is a pipeline technique used to execute multiple instructions simultaneously by overlapping the stages of the instruction cycle (fetch, decode, execute, store). It treats the processing of instructions like an ass...
- 85 marksNumericalDivision of Signed magnitude DataHideAnswer
Divide 10/4 using non-restoring division. [5]
- Dividend = 10 - Divisor = 4 - Operation: Non-restoring division Bit width: dividend needs 4 bits, so let n = 4. - Q (dividend) = 10 = $1010$ (4 bits) - M (divisor) = 4 = $00100$ (5 bits, using n+1 = 5 for sign) - 2's complement of M (i...
- 95 marksAssociative MemoryHideAnswer
Define associative memory. Explain with block diagram how it can be implemented. [5]
Associative memory (also called Content Addressable Memory or CAM) is a type of memory in which the stored data is accessed based on its content rather than by a specific address. Instead of supplying an address to retrieve data, the use...
- 105 marksDesign of Control UnitHideAnswer
Differentiate between hardwired control unit and a micro programmed control unit. [5]
Hardwired Control Unit: When the control signals are generated by hardware using conventional logic design techniques, the control unit is said to be hardwired. It generates a specific sequence of control signals directly through logic c...
- 115 marksDirect Memory Access, Input-Output ProcessHideAnswer
How does DMA controller work? Give an example of DMA data transfer. [5]
Direct Memory Access (DMA) is a process for data transfer between memory and I/O devices, controlled by an external circuit called the DMA controller, without the direct involvement of the CPU. It saves CPU processing time and provides a...
- 125 marksParallel ProcessingHideAnswer
Explain an inter connection network and its use. [5]
An interconnection network is a programmable system of switches and links that connects a set of processors, memories, and input/output devices in a multiprocessor or parallel computing system. It provides the communication infrastructur...