19.4.1. Block Diagram for Control Units

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the control unit do in a CPU?

   Hint

   Think about the role of the CPU in executing tasks.

2. 2.

   What is the role of the program counter?

   Hint

   Consider how the CPU knows what to do next.

3. 3.

   What is a control unit responsible for?

   • Managing memory
   • Directing CPU activities
   • Storing data

   Hint

   Think about where the CPU gets its instructions.

4. 4.

   True or False: The program counter is responsible for executing instructions directly.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the role of instruction execution in the CPU.

5. 5.

   Design an FSM table for a hypothetical instruction 'LOAD R1, M'. Describe how the control signals would change through each state.

   Hint

   Break down each part of the instruction into logical steps.

6. 6.

   Analyze how a change in the control unit architecture could impact the performance of executing an ADD instruction versus a complex instruction like JUMP.

   Hint

   Focus on how different instruction types might demand varying control sequences.