24. External Devices and Their Types
The chapter discusses various input/output (I/O) devices and modules, explaining their roles in computer systems, including human-readable and machine-readable devices. It further elaborates on the memory hierarchy, the function of the I/O module, and different methods of data transfer such as programmed I/O, interrupt-driven I/O, and direct memory access (DMA). Additionally, it highlights the importance of error detection and synchronization in device communication.
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What we have learnt
- I/O devices are categorized into human-readable and machine-readable, with specific roles in data input and output.
- Understanding of memory hierarchy including registers, cache, main memory, and storage devices.
- I/O modules are responsible for controlling, timing, buffering data, and error detection in device communication.
Key Concepts
- -- I/O Module
- A hardware component that manages communication between the CPU and I/O devices, controlling timing, buffering, and error detection.
- -- Memory Hierarchy
- The structure that organizes memory from fastest to slowest, including registers, cache, main memory, and hard disks.
- -- Direct Memory Access (DMA)
- A method that allows hardware devices to access the main memory independently of the CPU, enabling efficient data transfers.
- -- Programmed I/O
- A method of data transfer where the CPU actively checks the status of I/O devices, potentially wasting processor time.
- -- Interruptdriven I/O
- A method where the CPU can perform other tasks while waiting for I/O operations to complete, leading to more efficient use of resources.
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