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The control unit (CU) is a component of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) that directs the operation of the processor. A CU typically uses a binary decoder to convert coded instructions into timing and control signals that direct the operation of the other units (memory, arithmetic logic unit and input and output devices, etc.).
A central processing unit (CPU), also called a central processor, main processor, or just processor, is the primary processor in a given computer. [ 1 ] [ 2 ] Its electronic circuitry executes instructions of a computer program , such as arithmetic , logic, controlling, and input/output (I/O) operations.
A microprocessor, ASIC, or expansion card designed to offload a specific task from the CPU, often containing fixed-function hardware. A common example is a graphics processing unit. accumulator A register that holds the result of previous operation in ALU. It can be also used as an input register to the adder. address
Caching works by prefetching data before the CPU needs it, reducing latency. [55] [56] If the data the CPU needs is not in the cache, it can be accessed from main memory. [55] Cache memory is typically SRAM, while the main memory is typically DRAM. [27] RAM is volatile, meaning its contents will disappear if the computer powers down. [57]
Processors based on different circuit technology have been developed. One example is quantum processors, which use quantum physics to enable algorithms that are impossible on classical computers (those using traditional circuitry). Another example is photonic processors, which use light to make computations instead of semiconducting electronics ...
This is an accepted version of this page This is the latest accepted revision, reviewed on 4 February 2025. Engineering discipline specializing in the design of computer hardware "Hardware engineering" redirects here. For engineering other types of hardware, see mechanical engineering. For engineering chemical systems, see chemical engineering. Computer engineering Occupation Names Computer ...
For example, a CPU starts an addition operation by routing the operands from their sources (typically processor registers) to the ALU's operand inputs, while simultaneously applying a value to the ALU's opcode input that configures it to perform an addition operation. At the same time, the CPU enables the destination register to store the ALU ...
The central processing unit (CPU), memory, and peripherals were housed on individually printed circuit boards, which were plugged into the backplane. In older microprocessor-based systems, the CPU and some support circuitry would fit on a single CPU board, with memory and peripherals on additional boards, all plugged into the backplane.