GlossariesGCSE GlossariesGCSE Computer Science GlossaryClock speed

Clock speed - GCSE Computer Science Definition

Reviewed by: James Woodhouse

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What is clock speed?

In GCSE Computer Science, clock speed refers to how many Fetch-Decode-Execute cycles the CPU can perform per second. It is measured in Hertz (Hz), with modern CPUs operating in Gigahertz (GHz), meaning billions of cycles per second.

How does clock speed affect CPU performance?

A higher clock speed means the CPU can fetch and execute instructions faster. For example, a 3.5 GHz processor can handle 3.5 billion cycles per second, improving the overall speed of a computer system.

Revision resources to ace your exams

Explore clock speed in more detail and master other key related terms such as the fetch-decode-execute cycle in our revision note pages here:

Characteristics of the CPU (OCR GCSE Computer Science)
Characteristics of the CPU (AQA GCSE Computer Science)
CPU components & their function (Edexcel GCSE Computer Science)

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GCSE Computer Science Revision Resources

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James Woodhouse

Reviewer: James Woodhouse

Expertise: Computer Science Lead

James graduated from the University of Sunderland with a degree in ICT and Computing education. He has over 14 years of experience both teaching and leading in Computer Science, specialising in teaching GCSE and A-level. James has held various leadership roles, including Head of Computer Science and coordinator positions for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. James has a keen interest in networking security and technologies aimed at preventing security breaches.

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