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CPU Flashcards
OCR GCSE J277 Computer Science specification
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Purpose of the CPU
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) processes data and instructions, acting as the 'brain' of the computer.
Fetch-execute cycle
The process by which the CPU fetches, decodes, and executes instructions repeatedly.
Fetch stage
The CPU retrieves an instruction from memory (RAM) using the address stored in the program counter.
Decode stage
The CPU interprets the instruction to determine what action is required.
Execute stage
The CPU carries out the instruction, such as performing a calculation or accessing memory.
Components of the CPU
The CPU consists of the ALU, CU, and registers.
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
Performs arithmetic and logical operations, such as addition and comparisons.
CU (Control Unit)
Coordinates the activities of the CPU, including the execution of instructions.
Registers
Small, fast storage locations within the CPU used to hold data temporarily.
Von Neumann architecture
A computer architecture where instructions and data are stored in the same memory.
Program Counter (PC)
Holds the address of the next instruction to be executed.
Memory Address Register (MAR)
Holds the address of the memory location to be accessed.
Memory Data Register (MDR)
Holds the data that has been fetched from memory or is to be written to memory.
Accumulator
A register that stores intermediate results of calculations performed by the ALU.
Bus
A communication system that transfers data between components of the computer.
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