Registers
Extremely fast memory locations within CPU storing operands, results, and control information. Registers enable fast operations avoiding slow main memory access. Limited register count creates register allocation challenges. Registers form data paths within CPU.
Real World
When a PlayStation 5's CPU runs a game, its 16 general-purpose registers hold the exact values being calculated right now — like a character's current health points — so the processor doesn't waste time fetching them from slower RAM.
Exam Focus
Name specific registers (PC, MAR, MDR, ACC) and state each one's purpose — generic answers lose marks.
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