von neumann machine

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Explanation of "Von Neumann Machine"

Definition: A "Von Neumann machine" is a type of computer design that uses stored programs and is named after a scientist named John von Neumann. This design allows the computer to store instructions and data in its memory, which helps it perform various tasks sequentially (one after the other).

Usage Instructions:

• Noun Usage: You can use "Von Neumann machine" when talking about a specific type of computer architecture. It’s mainly used in discussions about computer science and technology.

Example:

• "The first digital computers were based on the Von Neumann machine architecture, which allowed them to operate more efficiently."

Advanced Usage:

• In advanced discussions, you might encounter terms like "Von Neumann architecture," which refers to the overall design principles of this type of machine. You could also discuss its limitations, such as the "Von Neumann bottleneck," which refers to the speed limitations that arise from the architecture.

Word Variants:

• Von Neumann Architecture: Refers to the design principles.
• Von Neumann Bottleneck: A term used to describe a limitation in data transfer speed between the CPU and memory.

Different Meanings:

• The term "Von Neumann" itself can refer to John von Neumann, the mathematician and scientist, rather than just the machine.

Synonyms:

• There are no direct synonyms for "Von Neumann machine," but you might refer to it as a "stored-program computer" in some contexts.

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• While there are no idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to "Von Neumann machine," you might encounter phrases related to computing, like "run a program" or "process data," which are often used in discussions about how these machines operate.

Summary:

In summary, a "Von Neumann machine" is a fundamental concept in computer science that refers to a computer architecture designed by John von Neumann, which utilizes stored programs to perform tasks.

Academic

Noun

1. any digital computer incorporating the ideas of stored programs and serial counters that were proposed in 1946 by von Neumann and his colleagues

Synonyms

• von neumann machine