The architecture of a modern PC is a logical organization, structure and resources, that is, the mechanisms of a computing system. The latter can be allocated for a certain time interval for the information processing process.
Rules for building a personal computer
The basis of a modern computer is the principles of PC architecture, formulated by John Neumann:
1. Program management. It consists of a group of instructions that the processor executes automatically (one after the other in a certain sequence).
2. Uniformity of memory. Programs and other data are stored in one section of memory. The same actions are performed on data and on commands.
3. Targeting. The main memory consists of numbered sectors (cells).
Building a personal computer
The classic PC architecture is based on the above principles. It determines working conditions, information connections, interconnection of the main logical nodes of a personal computer. These include external and main memory, a central processor and peripherals.
The personal computer is structurally designed as a main system unit. Peripheral devices are connected to it through specialized connectors . The architecture of the PC contains the following main nodes: the motherboard, power supply, hard disk drives, magnetic and optical disks, interfaces for additional and external devices. In turn, a microprocessor, a clock pulse generator, a mathematical coprocessor and memory chips are located on the motherboard (system) board. As well as a timer, peripheral controllers, video and sound cards.
PC architecture is based on a modular-backbone principle. This rule allows the user to independently complete the required configuration of a personal computer, and also (if necessary) to upgrade it. The convenience of modular organization of the system lies in the backbone principle of data exchange. The controllers of all devices interact with the RAM and the microprocessor through the main transmission line of information, which is called the "system bus". It is made in the form of a printed bridge on the motherboard. The system bus is the main interface of the computer, and the entire PC architecture is built around it. It is this element that provides communication and pairing of all devices with each other. The system bus produces three directions of data transfer:
- between the main memory and the microprocessor;
- between the input and output ports of external devices and the processor;
- between ports and main memory.
External devices of a personal computer provide a connection between the latter and the environment: control objects, users, and other computers.
The main functional characteristics of the PC:
1. Speed, performance, clock speed.
2. The capacity of the code buses of the interfaces and the microprocessor.
3. Types of local and system controllers.
4. The size of RAM.
5. The capacity of the hard drive.
6. Availability, size and types of cache memory.
7. Type of video adapter.
8. Type of multimedia audio.
9. Software.
10. Hardware compatibility with other personal computers.
11. The ability to operate the machine in a computer network, as well as in multitasking mode.