← Computer Science syllabus

EnglandComputer Science

Hardware and architecture

5 dot points across 5 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What is cloud storage, and what makes an embedded system different from a general-purpose computer?

Cloud storage and its advantages and disadvantages, and the characteristics and uses of embedded systems compared with general-purpose computers.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on cloud storage (what it is, its advantages and disadvantages) and embedded systems (their characteristics, why they suit one dedicated task, and how they differ from general-purpose computers).
9 min answer →

How does the processor fetch and carry out a single program instruction?

The purpose of the CPU, the fetch-decode-execute cycle, the von Neumann architecture, and the function of the common CPU components and registers (ALU, control unit, PC, MAR, MDR, accumulator).
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on the purpose of the CPU, the von Neumann architecture, the fetch-decode-execute cycle, and the function of the ALU, control unit and the named registers (Program Counter, MAR, MDR and accumulator).
11 min answer →

Why is one processor faster than another, and why does adding cores not always double the speed?

The factors that affect CPU performance: clock speed, the number of cores, and the size and use of cache memory, and how each one changes how quickly programs run.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on the three factors that affect CPU performance (clock speed, number of cores, and cache size), why doubling cores rarely doubles speed, and how cache hits reduce waiting time.
10 min answer →

What are input and output devices, and how do you choose suitable ones for a given system?

The purpose of input and output devices, common examples (including sensors and actuators), and how to choose suitable devices for a given system or user.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on input and output devices: their purpose, common examples including sensors and actuators, and how to choose suitable devices for a particular system or user, including accessibility.
9 min answer →

What is the difference between RAM, ROM and secondary storage, and how do you choose a storage device?

Primary storage (RAM, ROM and virtual memory), the need for and types of secondary storage (magnetic, optical and solid state), and the factors used to choose a storage device.
An Eduqas GCSE Computer Science answer on primary storage (RAM, ROM and virtual memory), the need for secondary storage, the three types (magnetic, optical, solid state), and the factors used to choose a storage device.
11 min answer →