1 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
2 What is CPU?
2.1 Definition
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the main part of a computer that carries out all the
processing and controls the operation of the entire system.
It is often called the “brain of the computer” because it performs all calculations, logical
decisions, and manages the flow of data.
In simple words, Whenever you type, click, or run any program — the CPU is the one that
processes your commands.
3 Basic Idea of How CPU Works
The CPU performs tasks using a continuous process known as the Instruction Cycle (or Fetch–
Decode–Execute Cycle):
➢ Fetch: CPU gets the instruction from memory.
➢ Decode: CPU understands what the instruction means.
➢ Execute: CPU performs the instruction using its parts (like the ALU).
This happens millions or billions of times per second.
4 Main Components of CPU
The CPU is made up of three main parts:
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
Control Unit (CU)
Registers (temporary storage)
4.1 Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
The ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) is the part of the CPU that performs all arithmetic and logical
operations.
It is sometimes called the “calculator” part of the CPU.
4.1.1 Arithmetic Operations
These include:
➢ Addition (+)
➢ Subtraction (−)
➢ Multiplication (×)
➢ Division (÷)
Example:
If you type 5 + 3 in the calculator app, the ALU performs the actual addition.
4.1.2 Logical Operations
These include comparing data and making decisions:
➢ Greater than (>)
➢ Less than (<)
➢ Equal to (=)
AND, OR, NOT operations used in programming and logic circuits.
Example:
If a program checks “Is age > 18?”, the ALU performs this comparison.
4.1.3 Role of ALU in CPU
Takes data from registers or memory, performs the required calculation or comparison, and
sends back the result.
Works closely with the Control Unit, which tells it what operation to perform.
4.1.4 Example in Real Life
When you open a spreadsheet and use a formula like =A1 + A2,
→ The ALU adds the numbers
→ The result appears on your screen.
4.2 Control Unit (CU)
Definition:
The Control Unit (CU) is the command center of the CPU.
It does not perform calculations, but directs all activities inside the computer.
Think of it as the manager that tells every part of the system what to do, when to do it, and how
to do it.
4.2.1 Main Functions of Control Unit
➢ Fetch Instructions:It gets (fetches) instructions from the memory one by one.
➢ Decode Instructions:It interprets (decodes) the meaning of the instruction — for
example, whether it’s an addition, comparison, or data transfer.
➢ Control Execution:It tells the ALU which operation to perform and manages data flow
between CPU, memory, and input/output devices.
➢ Coordinate Components:The CU ensures that the ALU, registers, and memory all
work together in proper sequence.
4.2.2 Real-life Example
When you play a video:
The CU instructs the storage to read video data,
Tells the ALU to decode frames,
Sends frames to the display card — all in correct order.
Without CU, all parts would work independently and the computer would not function
properly.
5 Uses of CPU
The CPU is used in every type of digital system that performs data processing or control
operations.
Some common uses include:
➢ Personal Computers and Laptops: Run operating systems, applications, and manage
multitasking.
➢ Mobile Phones:Process user input, manage apps, and handle communication.
➢ Embedded Systems:Used in washing machines, microwaves, cars, and ATMs for
control functions.
➢ Servers and Data Centers:Handle millions of transactions, websites, and online
services.
➢ Scientific Research and Engineering:Used for simulations, weather forecasting, and
complex calculations.
6 Importance of CPU
➢ It is the central unit that connects all parts of a computer.
➢ Without it, no operation or program can run.
➢ The speed, design, and efficiency of a CPU determine the overall performance of a
computer.