Central Processing Unit (CPU), SSC CGL Tier 2 Preparation

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is known as the brain of the computer. It is the most important part of the system because it performs all the instructions, calculations, and decision-making processes. In SSC CGL Tier 2 Computer Awareness, questions are often asked about CPU structure, functions, and its components.

What is the CPU?

The CPU is the main unit of a computer that processes data and controls all activities. It takes input, processes it, and then gives the output with the help of its internal parts.

What are the Main Components of CPU?

The CPU has three main components, the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) which performs arithmetic and logical operations, the Control Unit (CU) which manages and coordinates instructions, and the Registers which provide temporary high-speed storage for quick data processing.

Component	Function
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)	Performs arithmetic operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide) and logical operations (comparisons, decisions).
Control Unit (CU)	Directs the execution of instructions and coordinates data flow between input, output, and memory.
Registers	High-speed temporary storage inside the CPU for quick data access during processing.

What are the functions of CPU?

The CPU functions as the brain of the computer, carrying out instructions and managing all processing tasks. Its key functions include:

• Fetching – Retrieves instructions from memory.
• Decoding – Interprets the instructions to determine the required action.
• Executing – Performs arithmetic calculations or logical operations.
• Storing – Saves results temporarily in registers.
• Outputting – Sends processed data to memory or output devices.

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CPU Cycle (Fetch – Decode – Execute)

The CPU follows a continuous cycle called the Fetch–Decode–Execute cycle, which describes how instructions are processed step by step. This concept is frequently asked in SSC CGL Tier 2 exams.

Steps	Description
Fetch	The CPU retrieves an instruction from memory.
Decode	The instruction is interpreted to understand the required task.
Execute	The CPU carries out the operation and sends the result to memory or an output device.

Types of CPU

CPUs come in different types, each designed to handle tasks and processing in a specific way. Understanding these types is useful for SSC CGL Tier 2 Computer Awareness questions.

Type of CPU	Description
Single-core CPU	Can execute one task at a time.
Multi-core CPU	Contains two or more cores to perform multiple tasks simultaneously (e.g., Dual-core, Quad-core, Octa-core).
Microprocessor	A CPU built on a single chip, commonly used in modern computers.

Questions Expected from the topic CPU for SSC CGL Tier 2

To understand the type and pattern of questions asked from the CPU topic in SSC CGL Tier 2, refer to the table below:

Question No	Topic/Question
1	Which high-speed memory is placed between the CPU and main memory?
2	Which of the following statements about the CPU is correct?
3	Which is the oldest type of CPU?

Key Takeaways

Below are the key takeaways to remember in the topic:

• CPU is the brain of the computer.
• It has three main parts: ALU, CU, and Registers.
• Works in the Fetch–Decode–Execute cycle.
• Manages all input, output, and memory operations.

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