What Is the Main Function of the Computer in Addition to the Processing Cycle?
The typical processing cycle of a computer involves the processing of input and presenting output back to you. During this process, the computer "processes" that information as required. However, the instruction cycle of a computer is just as important. The instruction cycle is the process by which the computer pulls programs from the hard drive into memory and executes them. The computer performs this process from the moment it is switched on until it is powered down.
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Processing Cycle
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The processing cycle offers only a generalized overview of computer function. The processing cycle schematic describes what a computer does, rather than how it does it. However, while this is the main function of a computer, in an abstract sense, it doesn't address the underlying mechanisms of the computer.
Instruction Cycle
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The instruction cycle represents a different model entirely, although it is part of the processing cycle to an extent. The instruction cycle models what the computer does continuously while running: gathering instructions in the form of code, executing the code and the handling those results. You are not generally aware the instruction cycle takes place, or how it does so, because you don't interact with this cycle directly.
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Fetching, Decoding and Evaluation
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The instruction cycle has a few basic steps. The processor fetches code from memory that tells the processor what to do. The processor then reads the code, determines its operation and sends the appropriate electrical signals to complete the task. The cycle closes as the processor evaluates what operation to undertake, and loads the memory address of that operand.
Operands, Execution and Storage
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The processor then loads the address of the operation into memory, followed by the data defined by the command. The processor executes the code based on the decoded information from the command. Finally, it stores the result in a defined memory address. After this, the cycle begins again. A processor always runs through this cycle to execute any command, even when idling.
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