Cache memory and memory hierarchy
Computer Organization and Architecture · Engineering
CPU chip explorer
Interactive 3DLook inside a processor — data packets race between ALU, cache and control unit.
Controls
Drag the sliders or type a value — the simulation updates live.
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0.5×4×
Study notes
A 3 GHz CPU ticks 3 billion times per second. If a program needs 10⁹ instructions at 1.5 CPI, CPU time = (10⁹ × 1.5) / (3×10⁹) = 0.5 s. Data packets shuttle between cache, ALU and control unit on every tick — raise the clock slider and watch the traffic speed up.