The SDLC, CPU & Fetch-Execute Cycle

Revision for Computer Science GEN Y12.

CPU

CPU is the acronym for Central Processing Unit. It is responsible for executing instructions and processing data in a computer.

ALU

ALU is the Acronym for Arithmetic Logic Unit. It is responsible for performing arithmetic and logical operations within the CPU.

Clock Speed

The speed at which a CPU executes instructions and processes, measured in gigahertz (GHz). Higher clock speeds generally indicate better performance.

The Boot Process

The series of steps that a computer follows to start up and load the operating system, beginning when power is turned on. The steps are: POST, bootloader execution, loading operating system, final initialisation.

POST

Power-On Self-Test, a diagnostic process.

Bootloader Execution

The phase in the boot process where the bootloader is run to load the operating system into memory, typically after the POST.

Loading operating system

The step in the boot process where the operating system is loaded into the computer's memory, allowing it to take control of the system.

Final Initialisation

The last phase of the boot process where the operating system finalises its setup, ensuring all system components are ready for use.

Primary Memory

Data that is being stored for processes that are in action.

Secondary Memory

Memory that is being stored for everything, even while the computer is not running.

SOE

The acronym for Standard Operating Environment. This means that all hardware and software is standardised to a company’s needs.

Fetch-Execute Cycle

The cycle that the CPU uses to collect information, interrogate it, and execute a function based off this information.