Neco 2025 Computer Studies Question 2

Practice essay / theory question 2 from the 2025 Neco Computer Studies examination. This question covers Computer Hardware .

Neco 2025 Computer Studies Essay / Theory
Topic: Computer Hardware
Question 2 NECO • 2025 • COMPUTER_STUDIES • essay

A computer system has the following specifications:

Question Parts

( a )
Calculate the theoretical maximum data transfer rate between the CPU and main memory in gigabytes per second (GB/s).
( b )
Assuming the CPU executes on average 1.5 instructions per clock cycle at 3.2 GHz and each instruction requires two memory accesses (fetch and store) of one word (8 bytes) each, determine the average number of instructions the CPU can execute per second when memory bandwidth is the limiting factor.
( c )
The cache memory is 8 MB with a hit rate of 95 %. Main‑memory access time is 70 ns and cache access time is 1 ns. Compute the effective memory access time (EMAT) in nanoseconds.
( d )
Based on the calculations above, discuss whether the system is likely to meet the performance requirements of a program that needs to process 2 × 10⁹ instructions per second. Suggest one hardware upgrade that could improve performance and justify your choice.

Detailed Solution & Marking Scheme

Get the step-by-step solution, key points required by examiners and detailed marking guidance through the Edcrib AI Tutor.

Reveal Answer

About This Question

This is Neco 2025 Computer Studies Question 2. It is one of the essay questions from the 2025 Neco Computer Studies examination.

The question covers Computer Hardware .

View More Neco 2025 Computer Studies Questions More Neco Practice Questions Back to Questions

Master the Exam!

You've seen a preview, but there are thousands more questions plus AI tutor to break down complex solutions.

Unlock Full Access Available for Android & Windows
Chat with Support