Processor and Memory Architectures

This chapter takes a deeper look at modern processor architectures, specifically the von Neumann, Harvard, and modified Harvard variants, as well as the computing domains in which each architecture tends to be applied. The concepts and benefits of paged virtual memory, employed extensively in consumer and business computing and in portable smart devices, are also introduced. We will examine the practical details of memory management in the real-world context of Windows NT and later Windows versions. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the features and functions of the memory management unit.

After completing this chapter, you will have learned the key features of modern processor architectures and the use of physical and virtual memory. You will also understand the benefits of memory paging and the functions of the memory management unit.

This chapter covers the following topics:

• The von Neumann, Harvard, and modified Harvard...