13.1.1. Stage 1: Program Counter Update

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the function of the Program Counter?

   Hint

   Think about what happens to it during instruction fetching.

2. 2.

   What does MAR stand for in CPU architecture?

   Hint

   Recall its role in fetching instructions from memory.

3. 3.

   What does the Program Counter (PC) do?

   • It fetches data from memory.
   • It points to the address of the current instruction.
   • It holds the output of executed instructions.

   Hint

   Think about the role of PC in the instruction cycle.

4. 4.

   True or False: The Memory Address Register (MAR) holds the instruction to be executed.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember what data the MAR tracks.

5. 5.

   Suppose the initial value of the PC is 0x0010, explain the steps that occur when an instruction is fetched and how the PC value changes.

   Hint

   Trace the role of the PC step-by-step.

6. 6.

   Discuss the implications of a non-incrementing PC on program execution. How would this impact instruction flow?

   Hint

   Think about what happens if instructions aren't moving forward.