31.2. Instructions and Execution

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does MDR stand for and its role?

   Hint

   Think about what the data register does.

2. 2.

   How many buses does a single bus architecture use?

   Hint

   Remember the word 'Single'.

3. 3.

   What is the primary function of the MDR?

   • To execute arithmetic operations
   • To hold data temporarily from memory
   • To store program instructions

   Hint

   It holds data, not executes instructions.

4. 4.

   In a three-bus architecture, control signals are:

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   They guide the data flow.

5. 5.

   Explain a situation where a three-bus architecture would not be more efficient than a single bus architecture in terms of step count.

   Hint

   Think of how straightforward tasks can be done quickly with less friction.

6. 6.

   Design a hypothetical CPU instruction that utilizes the ALU in both single and three bus architectures. Discuss the efficiency of each.

   Hint

   Map out which components interact and compare each architecture's flow.