1.1.1 The CPU

What is the CPU

Central Processing Unit

What is the purpose of the CPU

To process data and instructions by constantly performing the fetch-decode-execute cycle.

Main components of the CPU

Control Unit (CU), Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), registers, and cache memory.

Function of the Control Unit

Sends control signals to direct the CPU’s operation

Function of the Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)

Performs simple calculations and logical operations such as addition, subtraction, AND, OR operations.

Function of Registers

A temporary storage space for one instruction or address

Each has a specific purpose

Function of Cache Memory

Used to temporarily store data that is frequently accessed.

Slower than registers but faster than RAM

What is a computer architecture?

The way a computer is designed and structured

What is the Von Neumann Architecture

A computer architecture that stored both program instructions and data in the same memory (RAM) and format (binary)

Key Components of the Von Neumann Architecture

Control Unit

ALU

Register

Cache memory

Purpose of Program Counter

Tracks the RAM address of the next instruction to be fetched

Purpose of Memory Address Register

stores the RAM address of the next instruction the CPU needs

Purpose of the Memory Data Register

stored the instruction that has been transferred

Purpose of the Accumulator

Stores the result of mathematical or logical calculations