Advanced Computer Architecture: Explore Emerging Trends and Advanced Topics

Question 1

How do advanced computer architectures contribute to the development of new computing paradigms like edge computing and distributed systems?

Accepted Answer

They provide specialized hardware capabilities tailored to the unique requirements of these paradigms.

Answer

They are not relevant to these paradigms, which focus on traditional computing models.

Answer

Novel computing paradigms are purely software-based and do not require specialized hardware architectures.

Question 2

Neuromorphic computing draws inspiration from which biological system?

Accepted Answer

Human brain structure and function

Answer

Optical nerve anatomy

Answer

Mitochondrial energy production

Answer

Muscular system movement

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of architectural exploration?

Accepted Answer

Identifying potential design trade-offs

Answer

Developing a fully functional system design

Answer

Optimizing a specific architecture for a given workload

Answer

Minimizing hardware production costs

Question 4

Which mechanism enables neuromorphic computing systems to simulate biological neural networks and learn from data?

Accepted Answer

Synaptic plasticity

Answer

Artificial intelligence

Answer

Machine learning

Answer

Quantum mechanics

Question 5

When evaluating the efficiency of a domain-specific architecture, which factor is of primary importance?

Accepted Answer

Performance per watt

Answer

Cost per unit

Answer

Compatibility with existing systems

Answer

User-friendliness

Question 6

What is the primary objective of architectural synthesis?

Accepted Answer

Generating a hardware design from a high-level specification

Answer

Optimizing an existing architecture for performance

Answer

Simulating the behavior of a proposed architecture

Answer

Testing the reliability of a hardware system

Question 7

Identify the fundamental principle that distinguishes quantum computing from classical computing.

Accepted Answer

Superposition and entanglement

Answer

Transistors and integrated circuits

Answer

Parallelism and pipelining

Answer

Caching and memory hierarchy

Question 8

Which domain-specific architecture is specifically optimized for efficient execution of machine learning algorithms?

Accepted Answer

GPU

Answer

FPGA

Answer

ASIC

Answer

Multi-core CPU

Question 9

In a superscalar processor, which technique enhances instruction throughput?

Accepted Answer

Multiple issue slots

Answer

Branch prediction

Answer

Out-of-order execution

Answer

Speculative execution

Question 10

What is the primary advantage of using a vector processing unit (VPU) over a scalar processing unit?

Accepted Answer

Increased parallelism

Answer

Reduced latency

Answer

Improved precision

Answer

Lower power consumption

Question 11

What is the primary goal of implementing a hierarchical memory system?

Accepted Answer

Reduced memory access time

Answer

Increased memory capacity

Answer

Improved reliability

Answer

Lower energy consumption

Question 12

What is the primary purpose of a branch predictor in a processor pipeline?

Accepted Answer

To anticipate the outcome of conditional branches

Answer

To speculate on memory access instructions

Answer

To manage data dependencies in the pipeline

Answer

To reduce the number of pipeline stalls

Question 13

In designing a fault-tolerant computer system, which challenge is of utmost importance?

Accepted Answer

Detecting and correcting errors in hardware components

Answer

Recovering from software failures

Answer

Ensuring data integrity

Answer

Minimizing system downtime

Question 14

Quantum computing is characterized by all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Classical bit representation

Answer

Superposition

Answer

Entanglement

Answer

Qubit

Question 15

Neuromorphic computing primarily aims to emulate:

Accepted Answer

Human learning and memory capabilities

Answer

Human visual processing

Answer

Massively parallel computations

Answer

Advanced numerical analysis

Question 16

In quantum computing, the state of a qubit can be:

Accepted Answer

Simultaneously 0, 1, or both

Answer

0 or 1

Answer

Any real number between 0 and 1

Answer

Any complex number

Question 17

Which type of neural network is commonly utilized in neuromorphic computing?

Accepted Answer

Spiking neural network

Answer

Feedforward neural network

Answer

Convolutional neural network

Answer

Radial basis function network

Question 18

Identify the approaches used to minimize errors in quantum computing systems:

Accepted Answer

Error correction codes

Accepted Answer

Fault-tolerant architectures

Accepted Answer

Quantum error mitigation techniques

Answer

Classical error correction

Question 19

Which architecture provides the highest throughput for natural language processing tasks, considering factors like latency, power efficiency, and throughput: GPU, FPGA, or ASIC?

Accepted Answer

ASIC, because it is optimized for specific algorithms

Answer

GPU, due to its high floating-point performance

Answer

FPGA, because it can be reprogrammed

Answer

GPU, because it can be programmed for various applications

Question 20

Which statement accurately compares the energy efficiency of spiking neural networks (SNNs) and artificial neural networks (ANNs)?

Accepted Answer

SNNs are typically more energy-efficient than ANNs due to their event-based computation.

Answer

ANNs are always more power-hungry than SNNs.

Answer

Energy efficiency in neuromorphic computing depends solely on hardware implementation, not network architecture.

Answer

SNNs perfectly mimic the energy-efficient functioning of the human brain.

Question 21

How can computer scientists mitigate ethical concerns, like bias, discrimination, and privacy issues, in the development of advanced computer architectures?

Accepted Answer

Actively engage in ethical discussions and promote responsible development practices.

Answer

Ignore ethical concerns, as they are irrelevant to technical development.

Answer

Rely solely on government regulations to ensure ethical use.

Question 22

How does quantum computing influence the development of programming models and software tools?

Accepted Answer

It fosters the creation of novel programming paradigms.

Answer

It requires a complete overhaul of current software development tools.

Answer

Programmers can directly use classical programming languages and techniques on quantum computers.

Question 23

Imagine the future of computer architecture. How might advancements in AI, quantum computing, and specialized architectures impact various fields and applications?

Accepted Answer

AI and machine learning algorithms seamlessly integrated into hardware design

Accepted Answer

Specialized architectures tailored to specific tasks, like self-driving cars or medical diagnostics

Accepted Answer

Quantum computing unlocking solutions to complex problems beyond classical computers' reach

Answer

Traditional CPU architectures continue to evolve with faster speeds and more cores

Question 24

How does interdisciplinary collaboration enhance progress in advanced computer architecture research and development?

Accepted Answer

It facilitates the exchange of ideas and knowledge from diverse disciplines, fostering innovative solutions.

Answer

It minimizes research expenses by eliminating the need for specialized expertise in various domains.

Answer

It standardizes research methods, simplifying the replication of results across disciplines.

Answer

It impedes progress by introducing conflicting perspectives and approaches.

Question 25

How do advanced computer architectures like quantum and neuromorphic systems impact software design, implementation, and optimization?

Accepted Answer

They significantly influence software design, implementation, and optimization.

Answer

They have little to no effect on software development.

Answer

They are irrelevant to software development.

Answer

They have a minimal impact on software development.

Question 26

How can advanced computer architectures, like quantum and neuromorphic computing, revolutionize scientific discovery and research in different fields?

Accepted Answer

Advanced computer architectures have the potential to transform scientific discovery and research across various domains.

Answer

Advanced computer architectures are only useful for large-scale scientific simulations.

Answer

The impact of advanced computer architectures is limited to specific fields like medicine.

Answer

Advanced computer architectures, like quantum and neuromorphic computing, have little impact on scientific discovery and research.

Question 27

Trace the historical evolution of computer architectures from the von Neumann model to the present day, focusing on the development and advancements in quantum computing and neuromorphic computing.

Accepted Answer

Von Neumann model -> Mainframe Computers -> Microprocessors -> Quantum Computing -> Neuromorphic Computing

Answer

Quantum Computing -> Neuromorphic Computing -> Von Neumann model -> Microprocessors -> Mainframe Computers

Answer

Mainframe Computers -> Microprocessors -> Von Neumann model -> Neuromorphic Computing -> Quantum Computing

Answer

Neuromorphic Computing -> Quantum Computing -> Microprocessors -> Mainframe Computers -> Von Neumann model

Question 28

How do machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) contribute to optimizing advanced computer architectures for high-performance computing?

Accepted Answer

Automating architecture design and testing through simulations

Accepted Answer

Identifying performance bottlenecks through data analysis

Accepted Answer

Predicting workload patterns for resource allocation

Answer

Mitigating security vulnerabilities

Question 29

Improved Version: Which attribute is distinctive to quantum computing?

Accepted Answer

Utilizes the superposition and entanglement of quantum bits

Answer

Relies exclusively on classical algorithms

Answer

Has limited applications due to hardware restrictions

Answer

Is faster but less dependable than traditional computing

Question 30

Improved Version: Which of the following is NOT a category of domain-specific architecture?

Accepted Answer

Central processing units (CPUs)

Answer

Graphics processing units (GPUs)

Answer

Tensor processing units (TPUs)

Answer

Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)

Question 31

Improved Version: Which technology plays a crucial role in neuromorphic architectures?

Accepted Answer

Memristors

Answer

Transistors

Answer

Capacitors

Answer

Inductors

Question 32

Improved Version: Which characteristic defines domain-specific accelerators?

Accepted Answer

Tailored to specific applications or tasks

Answer

Designed for general-purpose computing

Answer

Usually implemented as software libraries

Answer

Have limited programmability and flexibility

Question 33

Which of the following is a fundamental characteristic of quantum computing?

Accepted Answer

Utilizes qubits to represent information

Answer

Executes instructions in a sequential manner

Answer

Relies solely on traditional binary logic

Answer

Has minimal potential for practical applications

Question 34

What is a primary objective of neuromorphic computing research?

Accepted Answer

To simulate the computational processes of the human brain

Answer

To achieve optimal performance in scientific simulations

Answer

To enhance the efficiency of data storage systems

Answer

To create artificial intelligence systems that surpass human intelligence

Question 35

Which of the following is an advantage of employing domain-specific architectures?

Accepted Answer

Enhanced performance for specific workloads

Answer

Reduced energy consumption

Answer

Simplified programming

Answer

Increased adaptability to diverse applications

Question 36

Which of the following accurately describes a characteristic of quantum computing?

Accepted Answer

Employs qubits capable of representing both 0 and 1 simultaneously

Answer

Operates with a low energy requirement

Answer

Predominantly exists in theoretical research, with no practical implementations.

Answer

Exceeds classical computing in speed for all problem types

Question 37

Identify the primary advantage associated with neuromorphic computing:

Accepted Answer

Capacity to simulate the functioning of biological neural networks

Answer

Minimized energy consumption relative to conventional processors

Answer

Exceptional ability in executing intricate pattern recognition tasks

Answer

Superior clock speeds compared to common CPUs

Question 38

What constitutes the primary challenge in the design of quantum computers?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining qubit stability at extremely low temperatures

Answer

Creating algorithms that fully exploit the capabilities of quantum computing

Answer

Identifying suitable materials for constructing quantum processors

Answer

Ensuring compatibility with existing software applications

Question 39

How do domain-specific architectures distinguish themselves from general-purpose architectures?

Accepted Answer

They are optimized for specific tasks, providing greater efficiency

Answer

They necessitate specialized programming languages and compilers

Answer

They are designed to handle a broader spectrum of workloads

Answer

They incur higher manufacturing costs

Question 40

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of quantum computing?

Accepted Answer

Classical bits

Answer

Superposition

Answer

Entanglement

Answer

Quantum algorithms

Question 41

How do advanced computer architectures, like quantum and neuromorphic computing, impact traditional software engineering approaches, and what adjustments are necessary?

Accepted Answer

Modify existing software tools and methods to suit these architectures' unique traits.

Answer

Discard traditional software engineering practices and create new ones tailored to these architectures.

Answer

Disregard the impact of these architectures on software engineering, as they primarily concern hardware.

Answer

These architectures pose no significant challenges to software engineering methodologies or tools.

Question 42

What is a key advantage of neuromorphic computing over traditional von Neumann architectures?

Accepted Answer

Enhanced learning and adaptation

Answer

Higher computational speed

Answer

Reduced energy consumption

Answer

Improved memory access latency

Question 43

Which of the following is NOT a type of domain-specific architecture?

Accepted Answer

General-purpose architectures.

Answer

Spatial architectures.

Answer

Temporal architectures.

Answer

Neural network architectures.

Question 44

In the context of quantum computing, what is the term for a quantum unit of information?

Accepted Answer

Qubit

Answer

Quantum register.

Answer

Entanglement.

Answer

Superposition.

Question 45

What is the primary purpose of using domain-specific architectures?

Accepted Answer

To enhance the performance of specialized applications.

Answer

To reduce the cost of hardware.

Answer

To increase the programmability of systems.

Answer

To enhance security.

Question 46

What is the primary distinction between general-purpose and domain-specific architectures?

Accepted Answer

Generalization (versatility) versus specialization (focus on specific tasks).

Answer

Programmability versus efficiency.

Answer

Flexibility versus reliability.

Answer

Cost versus performance.

Question 47

How does interdisciplinary collaboration between computer scientists, physicists, and engineers drive advancements in the field of advanced computer architecture?

Accepted Answer

Facilitates a comprehensive approach to design and optimization, leveraging expertise from multiple disciplines.

Answer

Primarily involves computer scientists and engineers, with physicists playing a minimal role.

Answer

Leads to duplication of efforts and conflicting perspectives among different disciplines.

Answer

Is only necessary for specific, niche areas of advanced computer architecture.

Question 48

Which is a primary advantage of quantum computing over classical computing?

Accepted Answer

Ability to perform certain computations exponentially faster.

Answer

Easier programming.

Answer

Lower power consumption.

Question 49

Neuromorphic computing draws inspiration from the architecture of which biological system?

Accepted Answer

Human brain.

Answer

Quantum processor.

Answer

Cloud computing system.

Answer

Supercomputer.

Question 50

Domain-specific architectures are designed to optimize performance primarily for which type of applications?

Accepted Answer

Specific, well-defined application domains.

Answer

Scientific simulations only.

Answer

General-purpose computing tasks.

Answer

High-performance networking only.

Question 51

What are key characteristics of neuromorphic computing systems?

Accepted Answer

High energy efficiency and synaptic plasticity.

Answer

Specialized hardware for graphics processing.

Answer

High clock speeds and massively parallel processing.

Answer

Large memory capacity and fast I/O.

Question 52

In which application domains are domain-specific architectures commonly used?

Accepted Answer

Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and signal processing.

Answer

Office productivity suites.

Answer

Web browsing and email.

Question 53

Quantum entanglement in quantum computing refers to the phenomenon where:

Accepted Answer

Linked qubits share their quantum states, creating correlations.

Answer

Quantum algorithms can be executed simultaneously.

Answer

Quantum computers can communicate with classical computers.

Answer

Error correction can be performed more efficiently.

Question 54

Neuromorphic systems are particularly suited to tasks involving:

Accepted Answer

Pattern recognition and real-time learning.

Answer

Numerical simulations and scientific modeling.

Answer

High-throughput data processing.

Question 55

Domain-specific architectures achieve significant performance improvements by primarily:

Accepted Answer

Exploiting domain-specific knowledge and tailoring hardware for specific tasks

Answer

Using generic software frameworks and pre-built libraries

Answer

Increasing the number of cores and increasing clock speed

Question 56

Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize:

Accepted Answer

Cryptography, drug discovery, and materials science

Answer

Online shopping, database management, and web browsing

Answer

Word processing, spreadsheet analysis, and social networking

Question 57

Which of the following is a fundamental design principle of quantum computing?

Accepted Answer

Superposition

Answer

Cache coherence

Answer

Transistor scaling

Answer

Von Neumann architecture

Question 58

The primary architectural innovation introduced by neuromorphic computing is:

Accepted Answer

Analog computation

Answer

Vector instructions

Answer

Multi-core processing

Answer

Reduced instruction set

Question 59

Which of the following is a prime example of a domain-specific architecture?

Accepted Answer

Graphics processing unit (GPU)

Answer

Central processing unit (CPU)

Answer

Input/output device (I/O)

Answer

Memory controller

Question 60

The main advantage of using a memory-centric architecture is:

Accepted Answer

Reduced data movement between memory and processor

Answer

Improved instruction parallelism

Answer

Increased processor speed

Answer

Enhanced power efficiency

Question 61

The primary challenge associated with designing secure computer architectures is:

Accepted Answer

Mitigating side-channel attacks

Answer

Implementing encryption algorithms

Answer

Preventing software vulnerabilities

Answer

Managing access control lists (ACLs)

Question 62

The main purpose of a branch predictor in a modern processor is to:

Accepted Answer

Reduce the performance penalty of conditional branches

Answer

Improve cache performance

Answer

Detect memory errors

Answer

Manage virtual memory

Question 63

Which fundamental concept distinguishes quantum computing from classical computing?

Accepted Answer

Superposition

Answer

Fixed instruction repertoire

Answer

Binary data representation

Answer

Sequential data processing

Question 64

What unique characteristic sets neuromorphic computing apart from traditional computing approaches?

Accepted Answer

Biologically inspired processing capabilities

Answer

High floating-point precision

Answer

Enhanced parallelism

Answer

Reduced instruction set architecture