A register is an easily accessed place on a computer that generally has stored data for processing instructions such as instructions, addresses, dates, times or other types of information. The register acts like an electronic recorder which keeps a record of the instructions for processing. Register software is designed to access, read, write and erase information from the register. It is generally found in applications that use registers to store instructions. A register can also be called a memory register, since it is used for storing temporary or static information. Some registers may also have special hardware functions and are only accessible by specific software applications, while others may only be read or write-protected.
A register memory contains a series of labels that identify a particular instruction or data register. The labels allow instructions to be executed or reversed when the desired operation is performed. The register may consist of one or more memory locations, depending on the instructions and the architecture of the computer.
A register can be divided into two major categories: arithmetic or logical registers and memory locations. Arithmetic registers control the execution of arithmetic instructions. They are referred to as register keys or control keys. A logical register is used to store constant or routine information. A microprocessor controls the operation of a logical register.
An instruction word or label is a single or a multiple line label or key. A register may store one type of information or multiple types of information. Instructions for a register instruction may come in a form of a series of numbers or characters, or may be one or two lines of characters. A register instruction can range from a single or double digit number, a floating point number, a power symbol or any other symbols defined by the central processing unit.
One of the most significant registers in a PC is the system register. It holds the PC’s address, registry, and shared memory for executing instruction. PC’s hold data register and start up code in the form of labels or keys. Data registers hold data that is read by the PC.
A PC can execute instructions from a peripheral device such as a modem or network interface card. Register operations include shift/arrow control, add/subtract, divide/convert, multiply, and round off. A computer implements instruction by translating the instructions from an instruction word or label into a binary code that is then executed by the PC. Instruction management function allows a PC to control the execution of instructions within its main memory and register. A PC can have one or multiple registers.