9. Internal Components Flashcards
Fetch-Execute Cycle
The process of how a computer processes information and instructions.
Consists of 3 parts: Fetch, Decode, Execute.
Fetch
- > Contents of PC get copied onto MAR
- > Address bus is used to transfer this address onto main memory
- > Contents of addressed memory location loaded into the MBR
- > Transfers data through the data bus
- > Increments PC by one
- > Transfers contents of MBR to CIR
Decode
- > Instruction to be decoded is held in CIR
- > The CU decodes the instruction
- > The instruction is split into opcode and operand
Execute
If necessary, data is fetched
- > Opcode identifies the type of instruction it is
- > Operand is the data to be acted on.
- > Execute instruction by relevant part of processor
- > Result is stored in the accumulator
- > Status register is updated
PC
Program Counter
It is a register that indicates where the computer is in its program’s sequence.
MAR
Memory Address Register
This register holds onto memory location of data that needs to be accessed.
Address Bus
Unidirectional
Adresses come out of the CPU and into other components.
MBR
Memory Buffer Register
It acts as a buffer allowing the processor and memory units to act independently without being affected by minor differences in operation. It’s contents will then be copied onto the CIR to be decoded.