Computer Architecture: Electronic Calculations with Transistors

This lecture introduces electronic calculations based on transistors, starting from algorithms to create an abstract machine. It discusses the independence of technology for implementation, including electromechanical, electronic, and optical possibilities. The lecture covers the functioning of transistors as controlled switches, the low cost of transistors in modern processors, and the implementation of logical circuits. It also explores the construction of various logical circuits using transistors, such as inverters and AND gates. The lecture concludes by showcasing the capabilities of processors in performing complex functions through the addition of binary numbers.

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In mathematical logic and theoretical computer science, a register machine is a generic class of abstract machines used in a manner similar to a Turing machine. All the models are Turing equivalent. The register machine gets its name from its use of one or more "registers". In contrast to the tape and head used by a Turing machine, the model uses multiple, uniquely addressed registers, each of which holds a single positive integer.

Logical connective

In logic, a logical connective (also called a logical operator, sentential connective, or sentential operator) is a logical constant. They can be used to connect logical formulas. For instance in the syntax of propositional logic, the binary connective can be used to join the two atomic formulas and , rendering the complex formula . Common connectives include negation, disjunction, conjunction, implication, and equivalence.

Abstract machine

In computer science, an abstract machine is a theoretical model that allows for a detailed and precise analysis of how a computer system functions. It is similar to a mathematical function in that it receives inputs and produces outputs based on predefined rules. Abstract machines vary from literal machines in that they are expected to perform correctly and independently of hardware. Abstract machines are "machines" because they allow step-by-step execution of programmes; they are "abstract" because they ignore many aspects of actual (hardware) machines.

Transistor

A transistor is a semiconductor device used to amplify or switch electrical signals and power. It is one of the basic building blocks of modern electronics. It is composed of semiconductor material, usually with at least three terminals for connection to an electronic circuit. A voltage or current applied to one pair of the transistor's terminals controls the current through another pair of terminals. Because the controlled (output) power can be higher than the controlling (input) power, a transistor can amplify a signal.

Logical conjunction

In logic, mathematics and linguistics, and () is the truth-functional operator of conjunction or logical conjunction. The logical connective of this operator is typically represented as or or (prefix) or or in which is the most modern and widely used. The and of a set of operands is true if and only if all of its operands are true, i.e., is true if and only if is true and is true. An operand of a conjunction is a conjunct.

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