Components of CPU – Basic 3 Basic Technology Lesson Note (Second Term)

What is CPU?

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. It is the “brain” of the computer that does all the thinking and work.

Parts Inside the CPU

The CPU has different parts that work together:

Control Unit:

• Controls all other parts of the computer
• Tells each part what to do and when
• Manages the flow of information
• Like a traffic policeman directing cars
• Makes sure everything works in the right order

Other CPU Parts:

• ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) – does math calculations
• Registers – stores information temporarily
• Cache – keeps frequently used data

How Control Unit Works

1. Gets instructions from programs
2. Decides what needs to be done
3. Sends commands to other parts
4. Makes sure work is done correctly
5. Coordinates all computer activities

Exercise 2: Answer these questions:

1. What does CPU stand for? _______
2. The control unit acts like a _______ directing traffic
3. What does the control unit control? _______