A register is a type of computer memory that is built directly into the CPU (Central Processing Unit). Registers hold an instruction or a storage address, as well as any kind of data sequence. Registers also contain control logic circuitry that allows them to coordinate the flow of data and instructions during a program’s execution.
The term “register” can refer to several kinds of devices:
A register file is a special type of RAM in which each bit of data is stored by an AND gate whose output is shorted to either ground or one of two power supply voltages, Vdd and Vss. This arrangement reduces the overall size of a register file by allowing each word line in the memory to be addressed with just one AND gate. Modern integrated circuits use multiple register files, called register banks, which are each accessed using a single name.
Generally, there is a different register file for each datapath, such as the integer and floating-point data registers. Each register file is usually pitch matched to its bit-pitch, which forces the number of AND gates in each register bank to be the same as the number of read and write ports. This, in turn, reduces the total transistor area needed to implement a register file.
The width in bits of a register is defined by the processor word size; it may be wider than the width of an instruction, to allow for extra bits, such as a poison bit, which can be used to signal that the current instruction should be aborted. In addition, the width of a register file may be slightly wider to accommodate a decoder for the registers.
Registers are also a vital tool for businesses that need to track sales, process payments and create reports. In addition to basic arithmetic operations, most registers can also handle tax and tip calculations, barcode scanning, credit card transactions, inventory tracking and printing receipts. A simple cash register is sufficient for small mom-and-pop shops with low transaction volumes, while larger businesses can use a more sophisticated register system that includes a barcode scanner and credit card terminal.
A loan register, sometimes referred to as a maturity ticker, is used by loan servicers to identify and target customers for follow-up marketing campaigns. This is particularly useful for companies with a large customer base that are difficult to track using standard contact lists. The loan register can be used to send letters, email or phone messages to customers based on their payment status and date of maturity. This can help increase customer retention rates and ultimately improve a company’s bottom line. Similarly, a stock registry is used to record the ownership of a company’s shares and provide transparency in shareholder transactions. This is a critical component of any corporate governance process. It can also be a valuable source of information for investors when deciding on whether to purchase shares in a new business or existing company.