6.1.1. Control Unit

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the main function of the Control Unit?

   Hint

   Think about what happens in the CPU when an instruction is processed.

2. 2.

   Define the instruction cycle.

   Hint

   What are the three steps involved?

3. 3.

   What does the Control Unit manage in a computer system?

   • Data storage
   • Control signals
   • Memory hierarchy

   Hint

   Consider what part of the system directs other components.

4. 4.

   True or False: Microprogrammed control units are fixed and cannot adapt to new instructions.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   What does 'microprogrammed' imply about flexibility?

5. 5.

   Design a hypothetical Control Unit for a computing architecture with specific requirements: it must handle dual bus operations and manage a set of 10 simple instructions. Outline the major components and their functions.

   Hint

   Think about how you would manage instruction flow with two buses.

6. 6.

   Given the instruction SUB B, C, break down the microoperations required and illustrate how the Control Unit could issue control signals for each operation.

   Hint

   Think of each small step the CU must take to complete the instruction.