Central Processing Unit (CPU) (CIE IGCSE ICT)

Revision Note

Becci Peters

Expertise

Computer Science

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

  • The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the computer's "brain" responsible for processing instructions entered into the computer
  • The CPU processes instructions and performs calculations in order to produce an output

CPU Functions

  • Fetches instructions from memory
  • Decodes the instructions to determine the required operation
  • Executes the operation
  • Stores the result back in memory or sends it to an output device

CPU Components

  • The CPU is made up of 3 main components:
    • Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
    • Control Unit (CU)
    • Registers

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Becci Peters

Author: Becci Peters

Becci has been a passionate Computing teacher for over 9 years, teaching Computing across the UK helping to engage, interest and develop confidence in the subject at all levels. Working as a Head of Department and then as an educational consultant, Becci has advised schools in England, where her role was to support and coach teachers to improve Computing teaching for all. Becci is also a senior examiner for multiple exam boards covering GCSE & A-level. She has worked as a lecturer at a university, lecturing trainee teachers for Computing.