How does a Computer work?

From the Adder to Computer Architecture

This summer the children’s programme in the Arithmeum will deal with topics connected with the main exhibition „Aesthetics of Chip Design„. The individual themes will be „What are microprocessors?„, „What is chip design all about?„, and „How does a computer work?„. Although these themes depend to some extent on one another, they can without problem be booked individually. For children aged 8 or above, prior registration necessary, fee EUR 6.

Practically everyone works or plays with a computer these days, but hardly anyone knows how a computer really works. We will explain the basic functioning of a computer and find out what happens on a chip when we enter „5 + 7„. What does the word „programmable“ really mean? We will go on a journey through the wiring of a computer and will follow an addition like the one above from the keyboard to the monitor. On the way we will meet the various elements of the computer and will learn how they are interconnected.