Consists of three main components
- Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- Memory
- Input/Output (I/O) interfaces
The key features are:
- Single Memory for Data and Instructions : Both program and data are stored in the same memory space.
- Control Unit and ALU : The CPU is divided into the Control Unit (CU) and Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) for executing instructions.
- Sequential Execution : Instructions are executed one after the other unless explicitly told to jump.
- Input/Output Systems : Used for interacting with external devices.
- Stored Program Concept : Programs are loaded into memory and executed from there allowing flexibility and reusability.