Registers

Registers are tiny, high-speed storage locations built directly into the CPU. They hold small amounts of data and instructions that the CPU is currently using.

Think of registers like a mini version of RAM:

  • Registers are small, on the processor, and only store a few pieces of data at a time.

  • RAM is much larger and is its own separate piece of hardware.

Registers are essential for keeping the CPU running smoothly and efficiently.

National 5 Target

You should be able to describe what registers do and explain how they differ from RAM.