This is a standard textbook on computer architecture across many universities in the US (and if my students are right, outside it as well). So it might be worth

This is a standard textbook on computer architecture across many universities in the US (and if my students are right, outside it as well). So it might be worth a read. If this is absolutely the first time you are looking at architecture, http://www.amazon.com/Computer-Organization-Design-Fifth-Architecture/dp/0124077269/ http://www.amazon.com/Computer-Organization-Design-Fifth-Arc... by the same authors might be a easier entry point.