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Written Assignment Unit 4

The document discusses key components in computer architecture including the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), Instruction Decoder, Clock and Program Counter, Control Codes, and Control Unit. It explains the role and interdependencies of each component in processing instructions and performing computations.

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35 views3 pages

Written Assignment Unit 4

The document discusses key components in computer architecture including the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), Instruction Decoder, Clock and Program Counter, Control Codes, and Control Unit. It explains the role and interdependencies of each component in processing instructions and performing computations.

Uploaded by

Abelbeen ethio
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Ruhallah Mayar

Shashank Singh (Instructor)

University of the People

CS 1104-01 Computer Systems

15th May 15, 2024

Title: Understanding and Interdependencies of Key Components in Computer Architecture

Computer architecture encompasses a complex system of interconnected components that work


together to execute instructions and perform computations. In this instructional paper, we will delve into
the processing and interdependencies of five crucial components: the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU),
Instruction Decoder, Clock and Program Counter, Control Codes, and Control Unit. Through clear
explanations and illustrations, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of these essential
elements in computer architecture.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) serves as the computational engine of the CPU, responsible for
performing arithmetic and logical operations on data. It consists of various logic gates and circuits that
enable it to execute operations such as addition, subtraction, AND, OR, and NOT. The ALU operates on
binary data, processing input operands and producing output results based on control signals received
from the Control Unit.

Instruction Decoder

The Instruction Decoder plays a crucial role in translating machine instructions fetched from memory
into control signals that govern the operation of other CPU components. It decodes the opcode portion
of each instruction, determining the type of operation to be performed and the operands involved. The
decoded signals are then forwarded to the appropriate functional units within the CPU, including the
ALU and memory interface, to execute the instruction.

Clock and Program Counter


The Clock and Program Counter are fundamental components for orchestrating the sequential execution
of instructions in a CPU. The Clock generates timing signals that synchronize the operation of various
CPU components, ensuring proper coordination and orderly execution of instructions. The Program
Counter (PC) stores the memory address of the next instruction to be fetched and executed. During each
clock cycle, the PC increments to point to the subsequent instruction in memory, advancing the program
execution flow.

Control Codes

Control Codes are binary signals that dictate the behavior and operation of different CPU components
during instruction execution. These codes are generated by the Instruction Decoder and Control Unit
based on the opcode of the fetched instruction. Control codes determine which functional units are
activated, the data paths to be used, and the sequencing of operations within the CPU. They play a vital
role in coordinating the flow of data and control signals throughout the CPU architecture.

Control Unit

The Control Unit acts as the central nervous system of the CPU, coordinating the operation of various
components based on control signals and instructions. It generates control signals in response to opcode
values decoded by the Instruction Decoder, directing the flow of data between the ALU, memory, and
other CPU units. The Control Unit also manages the execution of branch instructions, facilitating
conditional jumps and loops in program execution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of the key components in computer architecture is essential for
comprehending the inner workings of a CPU. The ALU, Instruction Decoder, Clock and Program Counter,
Control Codes, and Control Unit form the foundation of CPU operation, working together in harmony to
execute instructions and perform computations. By grasping the processing and interdependencies of
these components, individuals can gain insight into the intricate mechanisms driving computational tasks
in modern computing systems.
References

Hennessy, J. L., & Patterson, D. A. (2017). Computer architecture: A quantitative approach (6th ed.).
Morgan Kaufmann. https://scholar.google.de/scholar?q=Hennessy,+J.+L.,+%26+Patterson,+D.+A.+(2017).
+Computer+architecture:+A+quantitative+approach+(6th+ed.).
+Morgan+Kaufmann.&hl=en&as_sdt=0&as_vis=1&oi=scholart

Tanenbaum, A. S., & Austin, T. (2018). Structured computer organization (7th ed.). Pearson. https://csc-
knu.github.io/sys-prog/books/Andrew%20S.%20Tanenbaum%20-%20Structured%20Computer
%20Organization.pdf

Stallings, W. (2015). Computer organization and architecture: Designing for performance (10th ed.).
Pearson. http://wibiwardhono.lecture.ub.ac.id/files/2019/03/CH01-COA10e_Stallings.pdf

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