Question

Assume that we are receiving a message across a network using a modem with a rate of 56,000 bits/second. Furthermore, assume that we are working on a workstation with an instruction rate of 500 MIPS. How many instructions can the processor execute between the receipt of each individual bit of the message?

Short answer

Around 8929 instructions per bit.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Problem

We have a modem receiving data at 56,000 bits per second and a workstation with an instruction rate of 500 MIPS. We need to find out how many instructions can be executed per bit received over the network.

Calculate Time Per Bit

To determine the time the modem takes to receive one bit, we use the formula: \[ \text{Time per bit} = \frac{1}{\text{Transmission rate}} \]Plugging in the given transmission rate:\[ \text{Time per bit} = \frac{1}{56000} \text{ seconds per bit} \]

Convert Instruction Rate to Instructions Per Second

The workstation instruction rate is given as 500 MIPS, which means 500 million instructions per second. To express this as an explicit number of instructions per second:\[ \text{Instructions per second} = 500 \times 10^6 \text{ instructions} \]

Calculate Instructions Executed Per Bit

To find out how many instructions the processor can execute while each bit is being received, multiply the number of instructions executed per second by the time per bit:\[ \text{Instructions per bit} = \text{Instructions per second} \times \text{Time per bit} \]Substitute the values:\[ \text{Instructions per bit} = 500 \times 10^6 \times \frac{1}{56000} \]\[ \text{Instructions per bit} = \frac{500 \times 10^6}{56000} \approx 8928.57 \]

Round to the Nearest Whole Number

Since we cannot have a fractional part of an instruction, round 8928.57 to the nearest whole number, which gives us 8929 instructions per bit.

Key concepts

Data Transmission

Data transmission is the process of sending data from one point to another through a communication channel. This is usually done over networks using devices like modems or routers. A key factor in data transmission is the rate at which data is transferred, often measured in bits per second (bps). For example, a modem with a rate of 56,000 bps can send or receive 56,000 bits of data each second. This measurement is critical as it affects how quickly data can be sent and received, influencing everything from browsing speeds to downloading files.

Understanding data transmission rates is crucial in computing because it sets the limits on how quickly information can be processed by receiving devices. Whether streaming a video or downloading a document, faster rates mean more efficient data handling and processing. Being aware of data transmission capabilities helps in troubleshooting network issues and optimizing performance.

In practice, achieving the theoretical maximum data rate can be affected by various factors such as network congestion, signal interference, or limitations of the hardware and software being used.

Processor Performance

Processor performance refers to the capability of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) to execute instructions. It is commonly expressed in terms like MIPS (Million Instructions Per Second). In this context, a processor capable of 500 MIPS can execute 500 million instructions every second. The speed and efficiency of a processor are pivotal in determining how fast a computer can run programs and perform tasks.

Several factors influence processor performance, including:

• Clock speed: Higher clock speeds often correlate with faster processors.
• Core count: Multiple cores allow parallel processing, improving performance.
• Architecture: Innovative designs can enhance instruction processing efficiency.

Bridging the gap between instruction execution and other computing activities, like data transmission, ensures that resources are fully utilized. This harmonization helps avoid bottlenecks that might slow down overall system performance.

Networking

Networking involves connecting computers and other devices to share resources and information. It plays a crucial role in supporting data transmission between different points, whether within a local area network (LAN) or across broader spheres like the internet.

Key components in networking include routers, switches, and modems, each playing a distinct role in managing data flow. Effective networking enhances communication, enabling various applications such as email, web access, and cloud computing.

A network's structure can significantly influence the efficiency of data transfer. Understanding how networks function and are configured can help optimize them to reduce latency and increase throughput. As networks evolve, incorporating technologies like fiber optics or wireless communications further expand their capabilities and efficiency.

Instruction Execution

Instruction execution refers to the process by which a computer's CPU performs commands specified by a program. Each instruction tells the CPU to perform a specific operation, such as adding numbers or moving data from one memory location to another. This process is fundamental to running applications and performing any computational task.

The CPU's execution of instructions is finely-tuned and happens at incredible speeds, often in a matter of nanoseconds. The speed is dependent on the processor's architecture and operational capabilities. Modern processors can execute multiple instructions simultaneously, leveraging techniques like pipelining and parallel processing.

Effective instruction execution is at the heart of computer efficiency. Knowing how many instructions a CPU can handle between specific activities - such as receiving data bits - gives insight into the overall performance of a system. By understanding these metrics, optimizations can be made to ensure that processors efficiently handle tasks, providing a balance that maximizes speed without overwhelming resources.