Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

‘Brain’ of the computer Performs the change of data into information Accepts data from any input device, changes

this data according to instructions given by the user and send the result to an output device

Explains how computers process data (input- raw text, numbers) into information (output)

Central Processing Unit (CPU) Consists of the

Control Unit Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) Registers

Control Unit

Directs and coordinates the entire hardware system

Organises the flow of data in a computer Similar to traffic lights controlling the flow of

traffic It interprets each instruction given by a

program and gives appropriate action to be carried out

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) Performs data calculations including addition,

subtraction, division and multiplication Performs comparisons on data items

Registers

Temporary storage area for small amounts of data or instructions before and after processing.

Some of the different registers are: Accumulator Register – stores data to be processed Buffer Register – stores data coming from or being

sent to primary storage, e.g printing a document Address Register – stores location of data in primary

storage Instruction Register – stores the address if the next

instruction to be processed

Microprocessor

A central processing unit contained on one integrated circuit

If the processor is built onto a single microchip it is called a microprocessor

Used in PC’s, cameras, DVD players etc.

Development of CPU speeds

Moore's Law - the number of transistors per integrated circuit doubles about once every two years, while the price of the chip remains the same.

Development of CPU speeds Intel's graph showing growth in the number of transistors over the

past 35 years

Development of CPU speeds

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Questions:

1. Describe the role of the CPU.

2. List and explain the three parts of the CPU

3. What is a microprocessor and where are they used?