CSC213 · TU past paper
Computer Architecture 2075.1 question paper
The complete TU 2075.1 exam paper for Computer Architecture (CSC213), all 14 questions with solved model answers written to the mark scheme.
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- 110 marksNumericalDivision of Signed magnitude DataHideAnswer
Write down the non-restoring division flowchart algorithm and divide 5/3 using non-restoring division.[10]
- Dividend = 5 - Divisor = 3 - Operation: 5 / 3 using non-restoring division Non-restoring division avoids the extra restore step of restoring division. It uses the sign of the partial remainder A to decide whether to add or subtract the...
- 210 marksCache MemoryHideAnswer
Explain the mapping process. Differentiate between direct mapping and associate mapping.[10]
A mapping process is one of the key sequencing techniques used in a microprogrammed control unit. It provides: "A mapping process from the bits of the instruction to an address for control memory." In this context, the mapping process co...
- 310 marksInput-Output InterfaceHideAnswer
What is input output interface? Differentiate between Input-output bus and memory bus?[10]
An Input-Output (I/O) Interface is a hardware component that provides a method for transferring information between the internal storage (CPU and memory) of a computer and external peripheral (I/O) devices. It acts as a bridge that resol...
- 46 marksError Detection CodesHideAnswer
Explain the error detection codes with example. [6]
An error detection code is a binary code that detects digital errors during data transmission. The detected errors cannot be corrected but their presence is indicated to the receiver. --- Parity is an extra bit added to the original mess...
- 56 marksLogic MicrooperationsHideAnswer
Explain the logic micro instructions with practical example. [6]
Logic micro-instructions are a category of micro-operations (micro-instructions) that perform bit-wise logical operations on the data stored in registers of a computer. They operate on individual bits of operands using Boolean logic func...
- 66 marksProgram Interrupt & Interrupt CycleHideAnswer
Explain the input-output interrupt with example. [6]
An input-output interrupt is a mechanism by which an I/O device signals the CPU that it requires attention (i.e., it has completed a data transfer or is ready for the next one), causing the CPU to temporarily suspend its current program,...
- 76 marksDesign of Control UnitHideAnswer
Differentiate between hardwired control unit and microprogrammed control unit. [6]
Hardwired Control Unit: A control unit in which control signals are generated by hardware using conventional logic design techniques. It generates a specific sequence of control signals directly through logic circuits. Microprogrammed Co...
- 86 marksRISC vs CISCHideAnswer
Explain the CISC architecture with example. [6]
CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) is a processor architecture in which a single instruction can execute several low-level operations (such as a load from memory, an arithmetic operation, and a memory store) in one instruction cycle...
- 96 marksBooth MultiplicationHideAnswer
Describe the steps of multiplication process using Booth algorithm with example. [6]
Booth's algorithm gives a procedure for multiplying binary integers in signed 2's complement representation. It handles both positive and negative numbers efficiently by reducing the number of arithmetic operations. --- The algorithm use...
- 106 marksInput-Output InterfaceHideAnswer
Differentiate between I/O bus and interface modules. [6]
An I/O bus is a shared communication pathway (set of wires/lines) that connects the CPU, memory, and multiple peripheral devices together. It carries data, address, and control signals between these components. Key characteristics of I/O...
- 116 marksDirect Memory Access, Input-Output ProcessHideAnswer
What are the major differentiate between Input-output processor (IOP) and direct memory Access (DMA) [6]
Differences Between Input-Output Processor (IOP) and Direct Memory Access (DMA)
Brief Introduction
DMA (Direct Memory Access): A process for data transfer between memory and I/O devices, controlled by an external circuit called the DMA controller, without the involvement of the CPU.
IOP (Input-Output Processor): A processor with direct memory access capability that communicates with I/O devices. It can execute its own channel programs stored in main memory, operating independently once initiated by the CPU.
Major Differences
Feature DMA IOP Definition A hardware mechanism that transfers data between memory and I/O without CPU involvement A dedicated processor that handles I/O operations and can execute channel programs independently Intelligence / Capability Limited; can only perform simple block data transfers More intelligent; can execute a full set of I/O instructions (channel programs) Program Execution Cannot execute programs; only performs data transfer Can execute a channel program stored in main memory CPU Interaction Requests bus via BR (Bus Request) signal; CPU responds with BG (Bus Grant) and releases the bus CPU initiates the channel using a channel I/O class instruction; after that, IOP operates completely independently Bus Control Takes control of the bus temporarily using HOLD and HLDA pins (cycle stealing or burst transfer) Accesses memory by cycle stealing but operates as a separate processor Complexity Simpler in design and function More complex; essentially a separate processor with its own instruction set Flexibility Less flexible; designed for specific, straightforward data transfers More flexible; can handle complex I/O operations through programmable channel programs Dependency on CPU Requires CPU to set up transfer parameters (source, destination, count) each time Once initiated, operates fully independently of the CPU Cost Less expensive to implement More expensive due to added processing capability Example Use Hard drive controller, PCI controller data transfers Large mainframe systems handling multiple complex I/O channels
Summary
DMA is a simpler, hardware-controlled mechanism that temporarily borrows the system bus from the CPU to transfer data directly between memory and I/O devices. IOP is a more powerful, programmable processor that can independently manage complex I/O operations by executing channel programs stored in main memory, requiring minimal CPU intervention after initiation.
- 126 marksData Transfer and manipulationHideAnswer
Explain the data transfer instructions with example. [6]
Data transfer instructions are a category of computer instructions that move data between the CPU registers, memory, and I/O devices without performing any arithmetic or logical operation on the data. They form the most fundamental class...
- 136 marksMemory Hierarchy, Main Memory, RAM and ROMHideAnswer
What are the main characteristics of memory system? Explain [6]
A memory system in a computer is characterized by several key properties that determine its performance, capacity, and suitability for different purposes. These characteristics help in understanding the trade-offs between speed, cost, an...
- 146 marksInstruction CodeHideAnswer
Write short notes on: a. Data communication processor b. Computer Instructions [6]
--- A Data Communication Processor (also called an Input/Output Processor - IOP) is a specialized processor that handles data transfer between the CPU/memory and I/O devices, without the direct involvement of the CPU. - The IOP is simila...