Instruction cycle is a term used in computing, and refers to the process of fetching instructions from memory and executing them. This process is repeated throughout the life of a computer program, and forms the basis of its functionality.
The instruction cycle is composed of four main steps. The first step is fetching instruction from memory, which involves the processor requesting an instruction from the program memory. Once the instruction has been fetched, it must be decoded. Decoding involves understanding the instruction and interpreting it correctly. After the instruction has been decoded, the processor will then execute the instruction. During this step, the processor will execute the instruction as specified in the instruction set. Finally, the outcome of the instruction must be stored in a register or memory location. This concludes the instruction cycle and the process begins anew.
The instruction cycle is an important concept in computing, as it is responsible for simply tasks like reading keyboard input, displaying graphics, and running complex programs. As the instructions are repeated, the computer can be made to carry out a wide variety of tasks.
Instruction cycles are found in many different types of computers, from simple 8-bit processors to modern 64-bit processors. The instruction cycle in these different computers may differ in terms of timing and implementation, but ultimately, the instruction cycle remains unchanged.
Additionally, instruction cycles have been improved over time, leading to improved instruction cycle management algorithms and core designs that can complete instructions in fewer cycles. These improvements have helped to boost the performance of modern computers.
