Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle

Question 1

What is the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle? (2 marks)

Question 2

What goes on during the fetch stage? (2 marks)

Answer 2

1. Next instruction or data must be fetched from the computer’s memory (RAM)
2. Instruction / Data is brought back to the CPU

Question 3

What is the RAM and its function? (2 marks)

Answer 3

1. Random Access Memory
2. Primary storage which is used to store currently in-use programs, instructions or data

Question 4

What goes on during the decode stage? (2 marks)

Answer 4

1. The CPU understands/works out what is required from the instruction (decodes)
2. Gets ready for execution

Question 5

What goes on during the execute stage? (2 marks)

Answer 5

1. The CPU will carry out the instruction that was fetched on the data
2. Where data processing happens

Examples:
- Performing a calculation
- Storing a result or data back in main memory (RAM)
- Going to main memory to fetch data from a different location