NIMCET 2007 — Computer PYQ

Step 1: Definition of a Bus in Computer Architecture

In a computer system, a bus is a collection of parallel wires or communication pathways that transfers data, addresses, or control signals between different hardware components. The main interconnected system utilizes specific buses to optimize data transmission pathways without clogging the CPU.

Step 2: Understanding Different Types of Interconnection Buses

The system bus structure is fundamentally split based on the components it connects:

1. Memory Bus: This is a dedicated high-speed bus design configured to connect the Processor (CPU) directly to the Main Memory (RAM). Because the CPU requires rapid read/write access to execute instructions stored in RAM, this pathway needs the highest bandwidth possible.

2. I/O Bus (or Expansion Bus): This pathway handles communication between the processor and various peripheral Input/Output ($\text{I/O}$) devices (such as keyboards, printers, or storage controllers). Examples include $\text{PCIe}$, $\text{USB}$, etc.

Step 3: Analyzing the Given Options

• Option (a): Describes an $\text{I/O}$ bus or system control bridge, not a specialized memory bus.

• Option (b): Describes Direct Memory Access ($\text{DMA}$) or shared peripheral interfaces.

• Option (c): Correctly states that the primary role of a memory bus is to allow high-speed communication specifically between the processor and the memory.

Final Answer

The correct option is (c) It communicates between processor and memory.