28.2.2. Disadvantages of Multiple Buses

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is one advantage of multiple buses in CPU architecture?

   Hint

   Think about how data can flow through multiple paths.

2. 2.

   Name a disadvantage of using multiple buses.

   Hint

   Consider what it takes to build each bus.

3. 3.

   What is a major disadvantage of multiple buses in CPU architecture?

   • A) Reduced costs
   • B) Increased design complexity
   • C) Enhanced parallel processing

   Hint

   Think about what is added with more buses.

4. 4.

   True or False: Diminishing returns mean that every addition of a bus guarantees improved performance.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the balance between input and output.

5. 5.

   Design a theoretical CPU with multiple buses while addressing both performance and cost issues. What would be your approach?

   Hint

   Lay out your CPU architecture on paper for clarity.

6. 6.

   Evaluate a case where a company opted for a multiple bus architecture but faced performance issues. What improvements would you suggest?

   Hint

   Think about which processes truly benefit from parallelism.