CPU

CPU

1. The brain of the computer

2. Fetch, decode, execute cycle

   • Fetching new instructions from memory, decoding them and then executing them
   • Fetch: the information is moved.
   • The cycle repeats itself until the computer is switched off.
   • The fetches information from the RAM and sent to the CPU to be decoded and then executed
   • Decode: the information is understood.
   • Executed: it is carried out.

3. Central processor unit

4. Components of a computer

   • CPU: processes information
   • Fan: cools the components that might get hot
   • Motherboard: connects all components
   • Power supply: supplies power to the components
   • RAM: stores data while powered
   • Optical drive: reads and writes data stored on compact drives
   • Hard drive: reads and writes data onto metal platters
   • Floppy drive: reads and writes information from floppy discs
   • Graphics card: Controls what comes up on screen and is populalr with gamers and people who use screens
   • Bootstrap loader: a programme in the ROM which allows the computer to start up properly.

5. 1 instruction is carried out per second

6. 1 hertz=1 second=1 cycle ,1 kilohertz=1 second=1 thousand cycles, 1 megahertz=1 second=1 million cycles, 1 gigahertz=1 second=1billion cycles