Gomez, Jibril Mishall H.

BSEE 3A, EE 132

The Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle

The Fetch Decode Execute Cycle, often known as the Fetch Execute Cycle, is the
foundation of all computer operations.

When computers were first invented, the computer was given basic instructions as well
as the data to be used. The Difference Engine, designed by Charles Babbage and
programmed by Ada Lovelace, is said to be the first genuine computer.
Our machines today are significantly more sophisticated, and they employ a concept
known as the Stored Program Concept. This means that our data and instructions are
both stored in the same format.... binary!
To grasp what is instruction and what is data, the computer must undertake a series of
operations that include retrieving the required information, understanding it, and
processing it. The Fetch, Decode, and Execute Cycle is what it's called.
Fetch
The processor obtains the next command, as well as any data required, from main
memory and stores them in specific memory locations known as registers.

Decode
After retrieving the appropriate data from main memory, the CPU must decode the
binary into two halves. The first part is the instruction, which is referred to as the
Opcode at this point in the cycle. The data, often known as the Operand, is the second
part. You should be familiar with these terms from math class. The Operator (also
known as the Opcode) is the function to be performed while doing a mathematical
calculation. For example, add or subtract. The data / numbers to be operated on is
referred to as the Operand.

Execute
And now, the processor understands what to do with the data and command and can
complete the task. Once the result is known, it is saved in the Accumulator, the last
register. Consider this the screen of your calculator, which displays a running total as
you execute additional calculations.