3.1
The Role of the CPU
Understand why the CPU is called the brain of the computer and how it controls processing.
🖥️ Topic 3
Computer Hardware
Explore how the CPU processes instructions, how devices handle input and output, how memory and storage hold data and how network hardware connects computers.
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Follow the sequence or jump directly to the hardware concept you need.
3.2
Fetch Stage
Follow how the CPU retrieves the next instruction from memory using key registers.
3.3
Decode Stage
See how the control unit interprets an instruction and works out what must happen next.
3.4
Execute Stage
Understand how the CPU carries out the decoded instruction and stores the result.
3.5
CPU Performance
Compare clock speed, cache size and the number of cores that influence processor performance.
3.6A
Input Devices
Explore how devices capture data and send it into a computer system for processing.
3.6B
Output Devices
Understand how computers present processed information through displays, sound and physical actions.
3.7A
Primary Storage
Compare RAM and ROM and understand how primary storage supports the CPU during processing.
3.7B
Secondary Storage
Compare magnetic, optical and solid-state storage used to keep data and programs long term.
3.8
Virtual Memory
Learn how secondary storage can temporarily support RAM when main memory becomes full.
3.9
Cloud Storage
Explore how data can be stored remotely and accessed through an internet connection.
3.10A
NIC, MAC and IP Addresses
Understand how network interfaces and device addresses allow computers to communicate.
3.10B
Routers and Network Hardware
Compare routers, switches, hubs and other hardware used to connect and direct network traffic.