| Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|
| CPU | Central Processing Unit which executes instructions to process data |
| decode | Second part of the cycle a processor follows where instructions are understood by the CPU |
| execute | Final part of the cycle a processor follows where instructions are carried out |
| fetch | First part of the cycle a processor follows where instructions are loaded from RAM into the CPU |
| HDD | Hard disk drive stores instructions and data for programs which aren't currently running |
| RAM | Random Access Memory which stores instructions and data for programs which are currently running |
| ROM | Read Only Memory which stores instructions needed when the computer is first switched on |
