What is the primary goal of performance optimization in computer systems?
A Increase memory size
B Reduce power consumption
C Decrease system size
D Increase processing speed
Performance optimization aims to increase processing speed by improving various aspects of the system, such as reducing latency, maximizing throughput, and ensuring efficient use of resources like CPU and memory.
Which of the following is a characteristic of embedded systems architecture?
A Focused on specific tasks
B Designed for general‐purpose computing
C Large and complex systems
D Typically requires an operating system
Embedded systems are designed for specific applications or tasks, unlike general‐purpose computers. They are optimized for particular functions, such as controlling devices or monitoring processes in a dedicated manner.
What is one method to optimize system performance for computational tasks?
A Use inefficient algorithms
B Increase CPU clock speed
C Increase power consumption
D Decrease memory size
Increasing the CPU clock speed enhances the system’s ability to process more instructions per second. It speeds up computation, although it may also increase power consumption and heat generation.
Which of the following is NOT a performance optimization technique?
A Caching
B Multithreading
C Overclocking
D Pipelining
Overclocking refers to increasing the clock speed beyond the manufacturer’s specifications, but it is not typically considered a sustainable or safe performance optimization technique. Pipelining, caching, and multithreading are more reliable optimization methods.
What does multithreading allow a CPU to do?
A Increase memory capacity
B Reduce power consumption
C Execute multiple threads concurrently
D Execute multiple processes sequentially
Multithreading allows a CPU to handle multiple threads of execution at the same time. This increases the CPU’s utilization, enabling faster processing of multiple tasks and improving overall system performance.
What is one major advantage of using cache memory in performance optimization?
A Faster access to frequently used data
B Increased data storage capacity
C Reduced CPU power usage
D Reduced memory usage
Cache memory stores frequently used data closer to the CPU, allowing for faster access. This reduces the time spent fetching data from slower memory (like RAM), improving overall system performance.
Which of the following is a key feature of embedded systems?
A High‐level programming languages
B General‐purpose processors
C Large data storage capacity
D Custom hardware and software for specific applications
Embedded systems often use custom hardware and software designed to perform specific tasks. This allows for high efficiency and low resource usage, making them ideal for specialized applications like home appliances or automotive systems.
What does pipelining in CPU architecture help improve?
A Memory access
B Data storage
C Instruction throughput
D Power efficiency
Pipelining allows multiple instructions to be processed simultaneously in different stages. This increases instruction throughput, enabling the CPU to complete more instructions in less time and improving overall performance.
How does parallel processing help in performance optimization?
A By using multiple cores to run separate tasks
B By reducing memory usage
C By improving data storage
D By increasing CPU clock speed
Parallel processing distributes tasks across multiple cores, allowing for simultaneous execution. This reduces the time required to complete complex tasks and improves overall system performance, particularly in data‐heavy applications.
Which of the following is a typical application of embedded systems?
A Video games
B Home automation systems
C File servers
D Operating systems
Embedded systems are commonly used in home automation systems, where they control devices like thermostats, lights, and security systems. These systems are designed to perform specific functions efficiently and reliably.
What is one of the challenges when optimizing performance in embedded systems?
A Unrestricted hardware
B Increased power usage
C Limited resources
D High processing power
Embedded systems often operate with limited resources like memory, processing power, and energy. Optimizing performance in these systems involves balancing these constraints while ensuring that the system functions efficiently for its specific tasks.
What is the primary function of an embedded system’s real‐time operating system (RTOS)?
A Provide general‐purpose computing
B Manage storage
C Manage hardware directly
D Provide multitasking capabilities
An RTOS is designed to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, with a focus on real‐time processing. It ensures that critical tasks are completed within specific time constraints, making it essential for systems that require timely responses.
What performance optimization technique involves breaking tasks into smaller sub‐tasks?
A Overclocking
B Caching
C Task parallelism
D Pipelining
Task parallelism involves breaking a larger task into smaller, independent sub‐tasks that can be processed simultaneously. This improves performance by allowing multiple tasks to be executed in parallel, reducing overall processing time.
Which of the following improves system performance by reducing redundant data access?
A Caching
B Segmentation
C Memory swapping
D Overclocking
Caching stores frequently accessed data in a faster memory location (cache). This reduces redundant data access from slower memory, such as RAM or hard disks, speeding up data retrieval and improving system performance.
What is one key factor that limits performance in embedded systems?
A Software complexity
B Power consumption
C Lack of storage
D Data transfer rate
Power consumption is a major concern in embedded systems, as many of these systems need to operate with limited energy sources (e.g., batteries). Optimization involves reducing power consumption while maintaining system performance.