GATE Degree & PG College, TIRUPATI
(Affiliated to Sri Venkateswara University, TIRUPATI)
MCA 1st Year 1st Semester – 1st Internal Examination-2022
Subject: Computer Organization
Time :2 Hrs Marks: 50
Answer any FIVE questions from the following 5X10=50M
1. What is a flip-flop? How does it differ from a latch?
2. Define the term "clock" in flip-flops. Why is it important?
3. What is a register? Explain its working principle with a block diagram.
4. Design a 4-bit ring counter using a shift register.
5. What is a multiplexer? Explain its working with a block diagram?
6. What is a multiprocessor system? Explain its features?
7. What is the difference between direct and indirect addressing?
Answer Key:
1Q) What is a flip-flop? How does it differ from a latch?
Definition of Flip-Flop: A flip-flop is a bistable multivibrator that can store one bit of
data. It has two stable states (logic 0 and logic 1) and changes state based on a clock signal.
Flip-flops are fundamental building blocks of sequential circuits and are used in registers,
counters, and memory devices.
Definition of Latch: A latch is also a bistable device that stores one bit of data.
Unlike flip-flops, a latch operates without a clock signal and responds to changes
in the input signals immediately when the enable signal is active.
Key Differences Between Flip-Flops and Latches
Aspect Flip-Flop Latch
Clock Flip-flops are edge-triggered (require Latches are level-triggered (based on
Dependency a clock signal). enable signal).
State changes occur only on clock State changes occur whenever the
Timing
edges (rising/falling). enable signal is active.
Slower compared to latches due to Faster as they do not rely on clock
Speed
clock synchronization. edges.
Usage Used in synchronous circuits. Used in asynchronous circuits.
More complex (requires clock
Design Simpler in design.
circuitry).
Control Controlled by clock pulses. Controlled by an enable signal.
2Q) Define the term "clock" in flip-flops. Why is it important?
Definition of Clock in Flip-Flops: A clock is a periodic signal used in digital circuits to
synchronize operations. It alternates between a high state (logic 1) and a low state (logic 0) at
a fixed frequency. In flip-flops, the clock signal controls when the state of the flip-flop
changes, ensuring that all parts of a synchronous circuit operate in harmony.
Importance of the Clock in Flip-Flops
1. Synchronization:
o Ensures all flip-flops in a circuit change state at the same time.
o Enables reliable data transfer and processing.
2. Timing Control:
o Defines when the flip-flop captures or outputs data.
o Allows precise timing in sequential circuits.
3. Edge-Triggered Behavior:
o Flip-flops use the clock signal to detect specific moments (edges) for state
changes, avoiding instability.
4. Coordination in Sequential Circuits:
o Essential for tasks like counting, shifting, and registering data in synchronous
systems.
5. Prevention of Glitches:
o Reduces the chance of unintended state changes caused by input signal noise.
3Q) What is a register? Explain its working principle with a block diagram?
Definition of a Register: A register is a small, high-speed storage device located within the
CPU or memory unit of a computer. It is used to temporarily store data, instructions, or
addresses during processing. Registers are built using flip-flops, with each flip-flop storing
one bit of data.
Working Principle of Registers
1. Structure:-Registers are composed of flip-flops connected in parallel. Each flip-flop
represents a single bit of the register (e.g., an 8-bit register has 8 flip-flops).
2. Data Loading: Data is loaded into the register via the input lines and stored in the flip-
flops.
3. Data Storage: Once data is stored, it remains in the register until it is overwritten or
cleared.
4. Clock Synchronization: Flip-flops in the register are controlled by a common clock
signal, ensuring synchronized operation for storing and retrieving data.
4Q) Design a 4-bit ring counter using a shift register?
Definition of a Ring Counter: A ring counter is a type of counter composed of a shift
register where the output of the last flip-flop is fed back to the input of the first flip-flop. A
single '1' bit circulates around the register, making it a simple sequential circuit.
Working Principle
1. Initialization: The register is initialized with a single '1' bit (e.g., 1000 for a 4-bit ring
counter).
2. Shifting: On each clock pulse:
o The '1' bit shifts to the next flip-flop.
o The remaining flip-flops hold '0'.
3. Feedback: The last flip-flop’s output (Q3) is fed back to the input of the first flip-flop
(D0) to form a ring structure.
5Q) What is a multiplexer? Explain its working with a block diagram?
Definition of a Multiplexer (MUX): A multiplexer is a combinational circuit that selects
one input from multiple data inputs and forwards it to a single output line. The selection of
the input is controlled by control signals or select lines.
Working Principle of a Multiplexer
1. Input-Output Relation
2. Selection Process
6Q) What is a multiprocessor system? Explain its features?
Definition of a Multiprocessor System: A multiprocessor system is a computer system
with two or more processors that work together to perform computational tasks. The
processors share memory, input/output resources, and work in parallel to increase system
performance, reliability, and efficiency. These systems are also referred to as parallel
processing systems.
Features of a Multiprocessor System
1. Parallel Processing, 2. Shared Memory Architecture, 3. Improved Performance
4. Increased Reliability, 5. Scalability, 6. Resource Sharing, 7. Synchronization and
Communication, 8. Load Balancing
7Q) What is the difference between direct and indirect addressing?
Definition of Addressing Modes: Addressing modes determine how the operand's address is
specified in an instruction. Two common modes are direct addressing and indirect
addressing.
Definition: In direct addressing, the memory address of the operand is explicitly specified
within the instruction.
How It Works: The instruction contains the address of the data directly. The processor uses
this address to access the operand.
Example: Instruction: LOAD A, Here, A is the memory address where the operand is stored.
Advantages: Simple to implement and easy to understand., Fast because there’s no additional
memory lookup.
Disadvantages: Limited flexibility since the address is fixed, Not suitable for large address
spaces in modern systems.
Indirect Addressing Mode
1. Definition:
In indirect addressing, the instruction specifies a memory location (or register) that
contains the address of the actual operand.
How It Works: The instruction points to a memory location (or register).The processor
retrieves the operand's address from this location and then accesses the operand.
