6.3. Module Learning Strategy

Try these first

1. 1.

   What are the three main steps of the instruction cycle?

   Hint

   Think about the acronym FDE.

2. 2.

   What does a control signal do in a CPU?

   Hint

   Consider it as a traffic light.

3. 3.

   What is the first step in the instruction cycle?

   • Fetch
   • Decode
   • Execute

   Hint

   Remember the acronym FDE!

4. 4.

   Control signals are used to:

   • Guide data flow
   • Create instructions

   Hint

   Imagine them like traffic lights.

5. 5.

   Design a flowchart for a CPU executing a simple instruction that involves reading from memory and writing back after processing. Include control signals.

   Hint

   Think through each step of the operation and label your signals clearly.

6. 6.

   Analyze a situation where an interrupt occurs during a macro instruction execution and determine the control signals needed for handling the interrupt effectively.

   Hint

   Consider the impact of interrupts on ongoing processes.