A Level Computer Science OCR Practice Exam

CISC architecture is commonly utilized in which type of device?

1. Mobile Phones

2. Tablets

3. Desktops and Laptops

4. Smartwatches

The correct answer is: Desktops and Laptops

CISC, or Complex Instruction Set Computing, architecture is primarily associated with desktops and laptops because it allows for a richer instruction set that can perform complex operations in fewer lines of assembly code. This characteristic is advantageous in environments where resources and performance are essential for running sophisticated applications, such as those typically found in desktop and laptop systems. The instruction sets in CISC architectures are designed to execute multi-step operations through single instructions, which can lead to more efficient use of memory and lower program size. These features are especially well-suited for the kinds of computations and multitasking environments prevalent in desktop and laptop computing. Other devices, such as mobile phones and tablets, more commonly employ RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) architectures because these architectures tend to be more power-efficient and are better suited for applications that prioritize battery life and efficiency. Smartwatches, due to their limited processing power and specialized functions, generally utilize even more streamlined architectures designed for lower power consumption and specific tasks.