30.1.2. Details of Instruction Fetching

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a program counter (PC)?

   Hint

   Think about what guides the CPU on what to execute next.

2. 2.

   What is the purpose of the Memory Address Register (MAR)?

   Hint

   Remember, it points to the current instruction or data in memory.

3. 3.

   What is the main advantage of multiple bus architectures?

   • Complex data handling
   • Simultaneous data transfer
   • More temporary registers

   Hint

   Focus on how multiple buses operate together.

4. 4.

   True or False: A multiple bus architecture requires more temporary registers than a single bus architecture.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the efficiencies gained.

5. 5.

   Design a simple instruction fetching system using a multiple bus architecture. Describe your system's advantages.

   Hint

   Focus on how many tasks can happen at once.

6. 6.

   Critically analyze a scenario where a single bus architecture might outperform a multi-bus architecture.

   Hint

   Think about tasks that are less demanding.