Explain the functions of ALU and Control Unit of a computer
The ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) and Control Unit are two critical components of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) of a computer system. Each has its own unique function that helps the CPU execute instructions and perform computations. Here are the functions of ALU and Control Unit in a computer:
ALU: The ALU is responsible for performing arithmetic and logical operations on data. These operations include addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, AND, OR, XOR, and NOT operations. The ALU receives data from memory or registers, performs the required operation, and then sends the result back to the memory or registers. The ALU is also responsible for performing comparison operations, which are used to determine if two values are equal, greater than, or less than each other. Control Unit: The Control Unit is responsible for managing the flow of instructions and data between different components of the CPU. It retrieves instructions from memory and decodes them, determining which operation should be performed by the ALU or other CPU components. The Control Unit also manages the sequence of operations performed by the CPU, ensuring that instructions are executed in the correct order. Additionally, the Control Unit manages the input and output operations of the CPU, which involve transferring data to and from external devices such as keyboards, mice, and displays. In summary, the ALU and Control Unit work together to perform calculations and execute instructions in a computer system. The ALU performs arithmetic and logical operations on data, while the Control Unit manages the flow of instructions and data between different CPU components. Together, they form the heart of the CPU and are critical to the overall functioning of the computer system.