3.4.1 CPU Architecture
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9 Terms
What is the primary function of a Central Processing Unit?
It executes program instruction code.
How do software programs run initially?
They are assembled into instructions using the fundamental instruction set and then loaded into system memory.
What are the four basic operations performed during the instruction cycle?
Fetch, Decode, Execute, and Write-back.
What happens during the fetch operation?
The control unit retrieves the next instruction from system memory and pulls it into the pipeline.
What is accomplished in the decode phase?
The control unit interprets each instruction, either executing it or passing it to the ALU or FPU.
What is the role of the ALU?
It carries out basic whole-number math and simple logic operations.
What does the FPU handle?
Complex, high-precision math involving decimals and fractions.
What is the function of registers in CPU performance?
They are the fastest, smallest memory built directly into the CPU core, holding data currently being processed.
What role does cache play in CPU efficiency?
It acts as a small, high-speed waiting area for frequently used instructions and data.
