J277 - 1.1 System Architecture

This section covers 1.1.1 of the specification. The resource covers three parts:

1.1.1. Part 1 and task
1.1.1. Part 2 and Task
1.1.1. Part 3 and Task

This resource covers key concepts from 1.1.1 Architecture of the CPU, focusing on essential knowledge required for understanding how a computer processor operates.

It includes:

The purpose of the CPU
The fetch–execute cycle (step-by-step process of how instructions are processed)

It also develops understanding of common CPU components and their functions, including:

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
Control Unit (CU)
Cache
Registers

In addition, the resource introduces the Von Neumann architecture, with clear explanations of:

Memory Address Register (MAR)
Memory Data Register (MDR)
Program Counter (PC)
Accumulator

This material is ideal for GCSE Computer Science students (OCR J277) and supports both revision and classroom teaching.