Learn: Von Neumann Architecture - The Stored Program Concept

Welcome!You've already learned about the CPU, its components, and how it executes instructions. Now, we'll explore the Von Neumann Architecture and its role in modern computing.

What is the Von Neumann Architecture?The Von Neumann Architecture is a design model for computers where both instructions and data are stored in the same memory. This concept is widely used in computers today and makes systems more flexible and efficient.

The Stored Program ConceptThe stored program concept means that instructions (the programs) are stored in memory alongside data. The CPU fetches these instructions one at a time, processes them, and repeats the cycle. This allows computers to run multiple types of tasks using the same hardware.

Key Components: MAR and MDRThe Memory Address Register (MAR) holds the memory location of data or instructions to be accessed. The Memory Data Register (MDR) temporarily holds the data or instruction fetched from memory.

The Program Counter (PC)The Program Counter stores the address of the next instruction to be executed. It ensures the CPU processes instructions in the correct sequence.

How It All Works TogetherThe CPU uses the stored program concept to fetch instructions from memory (MAR & MDR), keep track of their sequence (PC), and execute them step by step. This process makes computers highly versatile.

Review Time!Great job so far! You've learned about the Von Neumann Architecture, the stored program concept, and key registers like MAR, MDR, and PC. Let's test your understanding with some final questions.