Classification of Microprocessors

Task  1. Read and translate the text:

Задание 1. Прочитайте и переведите текст

The flood of microprocessors and microcomputers reaching the market, combined with the rapid rate of innovation, guarantees that any attempt to catalogue them will be instantly obsolete. A more fruitful introduction to the "micro" marketplace is to classify systems hierarchically according to their capability and function. Along these two dimensions there is a well-defined upward progression in both hardwareand software. In hardware the levels are chips, modules, "breadboard" systems, small computer systems, full-development systems and multiprocessor systems. This hierarchy is not absolute because the evolving technology creates ever more powerful chips, some of which can bridge two or three hierarchic levels. Chips are used to construct a module, modules to construct a small computer system (SCS) and small computers to construct a full-development system (FDS). Multiprocessor systems can incorporate modules, SCS's or FDS's, depending on the application and complexity. At the first level of the hierarchy are the microprocessor chips, representing the large-scale integration of tens of thousands of individual electronic devices: transistors, diodes, resistors and capacitors. At this level there are also more specialized chips: random-access memories (RAM's), read-only memories (ROM's), programmable read-only memories (PROM's), input-output (I/O) interfaces and others. The cutting edge of the technology works most directly at the chip level, providing, for example, RAM's of ever-higher storage capacity. Generally the various kinds of chips are grouped into families that are compatible with particular microprocessors. The families will include a series of RAM, ROM and PROM chips to create a memory system, a series of interface chips capable of handling both parallel and serial input-output functions and miscellaneous chips to enhance system capabilities, such as high-speed arithmetic operations. Master control chips are needed to establish priorities5 and to keep signals flowing smoothly through the complex maze of interconnections. The compatibility of chips and chip families made by different manufacturers varies widely.

Task  2. Answer the following questions:

Задание 2. Ответьте на следующие вопросы:

1. Read the text “Classification of Microprocessors”.

2. Study the definition of terms given below the text.

Task  3. Discuss the following questions in group:

a) How are modern microprocessors classified?

b) What are the levels in hardware classification?

c) What are the characteristic features of the second level of the microprocessors' classification?

d) What are the advantages of the small computer system level?

e) What is the FDS intended for?

Task  4. What do these abbreviations mean? Use the Glossary to help if necessary.

GPRS, HTM, SMS, Wap, WM, XM

Task  5. Rank these predictions according to how certain the speakers are. Put the most certain at the top of your list and the least certain at the bottom. Some predictions can have equal ranking.

1. Wap phones will revolutionise the way we communicate.

2. Wap phones may revolutionise the way we communicate.

3. It’s likely Wap phones will revolutionise the way we communicate.

4. It’s unlikely Wap phones will revolutionise the way we communicate.

5. It’s expected Wap phones will revolutionise the way we communicate.

6. It’s probable Wap phones will revolutionise the way we communicate.

7. It’s possible Wap phones will revolutionise the way we communicate.

8. Wap phones will certainly revolutionise the way we communicate.

LESSON 26

Uses and Applications of Microprocessors

Task  1. Read and translate the text:

Задание 1. Прочитайте и переведите текст

The uses and applications of microcomputers appear, at present, to fall somewhere between discreet logic, on the one hand, and minicomputers, on the other. The microprocessor fills the large gap between discrete circuits and the relatively sophisticated minicomputer. The microprocessor also fills the cost gap between discrete circuits. Because of its relatively low cost and flexibility, the

Microsystem has an abundance of applications at home and small business environment. It fills the needs of small manufacturers who cannot afford, or do not need, large computer systems.

Some of the present applications which have already found their way into the market place are:

— Video TV games;

— Intelligent computer terminals;

— Process controllers;

— Telephone switching controls;

— Programmable household appliances;

— Computerized automotive electronic systems.

Computers are being used as part of the educational process, and guidance. Controlled computers have made possible space exploration and automated factories.

Microprocessors can also be expanded to serve specialized control functions in the area of industrial tools and machinery. Because they are programmable logic systems, they can be adapted to serve a variety of job functions each of which previously required individually designed circuits. The low cost of production makes them extremely attractive. It is perhaps this hardware/softwaretrade that makes the impact of the microprocessor so great. Entirely different circuit functions can now be accomplished with the same hardware by means of a different set of program instructions. The microprocessor is recognized as the device which finally unites two previously separate areas: that of the hardware designer and the programmer.

Task  2. Answer the following questions:

Задание 2. Ответьте на следующие вопросы:

1. Read the text “Uses and Applications of Microprocessors” and discuss the main idea of it in group.

2. Draw a diagram of microprocessors applications.

3. Make a list of the microprocessor’s applications you have read about or you have seen by yourself.

4. Find additional information of Microsystems application.

Task  3. Find the answers to these questions in the following text.

1. How many channels does an ISDN system commonly use?

2. What types of wireless systems are named in the text?

3. What do PCs connected to a satellite system use to send data?

4. What types of cables are used in cable network systems?

5. What may need to be upgraded when using a shielded DSL system?

6. Which type of broadband service is the cheapest?