Chapter 2 Computer Evolution And Performance

1. The first generation: Vacuum tubes
   • ENIAC
   • • Decimal
     • Can conditional jump and be programmable, distinguishing it from ealier ones.
   • The von Neumann Machine/IAS
   • • Including：
     • • A main memory
       • An arithmetic and logic unit(Binary)
       • A control unit
       • Input and output
     • 1000 storage locations, called words, of 40 binary digits each(Both data and instructions are stored there)(Number: a sign bit and a 39-bit value)(Two 20-bit instructions, each consisting of an 8-bit opcode and a 12-bit address

     

2. • • Each instruction cycle consists of two subcycles: fetch cycle、execute cycle. Therefore, to perform one instruction need to visit the memory twice.
3. The second generation: Transistors
   • Smaller, cheaper, dissipating less heat, made from silicon
   • Introduction of more complex arithmetic and logic units and control units, the use of high-level programming language(assembly language) and the provision of system software with the computer.
4. The third generation: Integrated circuits
   • Moore's law: the number of transistors that could be put on a single chip was doubling every year and correctly predicted that this pace would continue into the near future.
   • • Number of transistors doubles every 18 months
     • Cost
     • Speed/Performance
     • Convenient/Flexibility
     • Reducing power and cooling requirements
     • Reliability
   • The characteristics of a family:
   • • Similar or identical instruction set
     • Similar or identical operating system
     • Increasing speed
     • Increasing number of I/O ports
     • Increasing memory size
     • Increasing cost
5. 1978 ~ ?   Large-scale integration (LSI) and Very-large-scale integration (VLSI)
6. Classification of computers
   • Chip microcomputer
   • Single board computer
   • Embedded computer
   • Microcomputer/desktop computer
   • Server
   • Supercomputer
7. Designing for performance
   • Microprocessor speed
   • • Branch prediction
     • Data flow analysis
     • Speculative execution
   • Performance balance: an adjusting of the organization and architecture to compensate for the mismatch among the capabilities of the various components
   • Improvements in chip organization and architecture