The control unit acts as a central nervous system for the other components of the computer. Although it does not perform any actual processing on the data, but by selecting, interpreting and seeing to the execution of program instructions it maintains the order and directs the operation of the entire system.
Thus, the functions of control unit are as follows −
It managers and coordinates the entire computer system.
It obtains the instructions from the program stored in main memory.
It interprets/decodes the instructions.
It issues signals that causes other units of the system to perform their job.
An electronic device containing data buffers and logical circuitry, situated between the computer channel and the input/output device, and controlling data transfers and such operations as tape rewind.
the portion of a computer that coordinates the operation of all the computer’s devices, prescribing specific actions according to a given program. The control unit generates control signals that ensure the required sequence of execution of operations, monitors the operation of the computer in various regimes, and provides for the interface of the human operator with the computer.