System Fundementals Hw #2

1. Explain the difference between a processor's internal and external data bus.

   1. An internal data bus is located within the CPU and only communicates to the internal data caches that are a part of the CPU. An external data bus takes data from the cpu and brings that data to the RAM, Data Storage (ssd/hard drive) and IO devices.

2. What is the difference between the L1, L2, and L3 caches?

   1. L1 cache is the fastest storage option for a CPU. This means it is the cache option the cpu uses while completing a task or computation. Typically L1 cache is the smallest since it has to fit within the CPU.

   2. L2 cache is not as fast as L1 but a lot faster than your system’s ram. It is larger than the L1 cache and can store more data.

   3. L3 cache is the largest of the three different types of caches. It can be used by the entire chip rather than one specific core. It can act similar to the system's RAM but tends to be a bit faster since it is part of the CPU.

3. How many times can a modern computer send data in a single clock cycle?

   1. Our modern processors have the ability to send data 4 times during a single clock cycle

4. Which of these items is not used to cool a processor?

   1. The case fan indirectly cools the processor.

5. What determines whether a motherboard can use a specific model of RAM or type of memory, such as DDR3 or DDR4?

   1. The type of memory slots on the motherboard are made for different number of pins on the ram stick.