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CU - GCSE Computer Science Definition

Reviewed by: Robert Hampton

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What is the CU?

In GCSE Computer Science, the CU (Control Unit) is defined as a component of the CPU, responsible for coordinating how data moves by sending signals to control the flow of the data.

The CU plays a crucial role in the decode stage of the fetch-decode-execute cycle, responsible for decoding the instructions fetched from memory.

Diagram of a computer system showing ALU, Control Unit, Registers (ACC, MDR, PC, MAR), and Cache. The Control Unit is highlighted in red.
Illustration of the internal components of the CPU

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Robert Hampton

Reviewer: Robert Hampton

Expertise: Computer Science Content Creator

Rob has over 16 years' experience teaching Computer Science and ICT at KS3 & GCSE levels. Rob has demonstrated strong leadership as Head of Department since 2012 and previously supported teacher development as a Specialist Leader of Education, empowering departments to excel in Computer Science. Beyond his tech expertise, Robert embraces the virtual world as an avid gamer, conquering digital battlefields when he's not coding.

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