OCR GCSE Computer Science J277 1.1a - The CPU

Vocabulary flashcards covering CPU components, the fetch-decode-execute cycle, and Von Neumann architecture.

CPU

Processes instructions using the fetch-decode-execute cycle.

Fetch-decode-execute cycle

The cycle used by the CPU to process instructions.

Control Unit

Coordinates CPU activity and decodes instructions.

ALU

Performs arithmetic and logical operations.

Registers

Tiny, very fast storage locations inside the CPU.

Cache

Fast memory close to or inside the CPU that holds frequently needed data and instructions.

Von Neumann architecture

A system that stores program instructions and data in the same memory.