Explain computer fundamentals

Follow a program through the system

A stored program keeps instructions and data in memory. The processor fetches an instruction, decodes what it requests, and executes it. Registers hold values needed immediately; cache can reduce waiting for frequently used memory locations. More clock cycles per second do not by themselves describe how much useful work a processor completes.

Distinguish volatile main memory from persistent storage. When comparing systems, connect a characteristic to the workload: a large image dataset may need more memory and storage bandwidth, while a small embedded controller may prioritize power consumption.

Choose a representation

A fixed number of bits provides a finite range of values. Unsigned integers and two's-complement integers interpret the same pattern differently. Character encodings map characters to numeric representations; an image also needs dimensions and color information to interpret its bits.

Explain a tradeoff using a particular use case. More image detail requires more storage before compression. A sensor recording may need sufficient precision, but adding precision beyond the measurement's reliability does not create better evidence.

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