A-level Computing 2009/CIE/Computer systems, communications and software/Hardware


 * (a) describe the function and purpose of the control unit, memory unit and arithmetic logic unit (ALU) as individual parts of a processor

* /Processor components/


 * (b) explain the difference between types of primary memory and their uses (RAM, ROM)
 * (c) describe the basic features, advantages, disadvantages and use of secondary storage media
 * e.g. magnetic, optical and solid state
 * (d) describe use of buffers and interrupts in the transfer of data between peripheral devices and primary memory

* /Primary and secondary storage/


 * (e) describe a range of common peripheral devices in terms of their features, benefits, drawbacks and

uses
 * (f) relate the choice of peripheral device to a given application, justifying the choices made
 * (g) understand the potential problem of speed mismatch between peripheral and processor

* /Peripheral devices/