# 3.0 Module Overview: Hardware

- **Track:** Cambridge IGCSE™ Computer Science (0478 / 0984) (CAMBRIDGE IGCSE 0478)
- **Module:** Section 3: Hardware & Architecture
- **Estimated Duration:** 5 minutes
- **Access:** Open Theory (All-Access for Interactive IDE & Autotests)

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## Theory & Conceptual Background

Use this module to build one skill at a time, then apply it in a different situation. Read each worked example, explain its steps and attempt the exercises without copying the example. The mixed review is for retrieval now and after a delay.

## Lessons

- [CPU Architecture & Von Neumann Architecture](/learn/igcse-0478/cpu-architecture-von-neumann)
- [The Fetch-Decode-Execute (FDE) Cycle](/learn/igcse-0478/fetch-decode-execute-cycle)
- [CPU Performance Factors](/learn/igcse-0478/cpu-performance-factors)
- [Instruction Sets & Machine Code](/learn/igcse-0478/instruction-sets-machine-code)
- [Embedded Systems](/learn/igcse-0478/embedded-systems)
- [Input Devices](/learn/igcse-0478/input-devices-and-sensors)
- [Touchscreen Technologies](/learn/igcse-0478/touchscreen-technologies)
- [Sensors in Context](/learn/igcse-0478/sensors-in-context)
- [Output Devices & Actuators](/learn/igcse-0478/output-devices-and-actuators)
- [Printing Technologies](/learn/igcse-0478/printing-technologies)
- [Primary Storage: RAM, ROM & Virtual Memory](/learn/igcse-0478/primary-storage-ram-rom)
- [Secondary Storage Technologies](/learn/igcse-0478/secondary-storage-technologies)
- [Cloud and Local Storage](/learn/igcse-0478/cloud-storage)
- [Network Hardware and Addresses](/learn/igcse-0478/network-hardware)
- [Mixed Practice: Hardware](/learn/igcse-0478/hardware-review)

## Study and feedback

Reading theory is open. Interactive access depends on your account and module access; the AI Tutor requires eligible All-Access membership. Structured checks provide feedback on specific answers. Written explanations and diagrams need comparison with the worked guidance and, where possible, a teacher's feedback. Passing a check is not a prediction of an exam grade.

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## Interactive Exercises & Autotest Specifications

### Exercise 1: Overview Check: How to study (Fill in blank, 5 XP)

**Instructions:**
Work out each answer before submitting. After reading a worked example, should you copy it or try new values?


**Starter Code:**
```text
{"prompt":"Overview Check: How to study","template":"1. After reading a worked example, should you copy it or try new values? [blank_1]","blanks":[{"id":"blank_1"}],"word_bank":["try new values","copy it directly","skip the practice"]}
```