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PART ONE

Overview

P.1 ISSUES FOR PART ONE

The purpose of Part One is to provide a background and context for the remainder
of this book. The fundamental concepts of computer organization and architecture
are presented.

ROAD MAP FOR PART ONE

Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 1 introduces the concept of the computer as a hierarchical system.
A computer can be viewed as a structure of components and its function
described in terms of the collective function of its cooperating components.
Each component, in turn, can be described in terms of its internal structure
and function.The major levels of this hierarchical view are introduced.The
remainder of the book is organized, top down, using these levels.

Chapter 2 Computer Evolution and Performance
Chapter 2 serves two purposes. First, a discussion of the history of com-
puter technology is an easy and interesting way of being introduced to the
basic concepts of computer organization and architecture. The chapter
also addresses the technology trends that have made performance the
focus of computer system design and previews the various techniques and
strategies that are used to achieve balanced, efficient performance.

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