The Program Counter (PC) is a key component inside the CPU (Central Processing Unit) of a computer.
What It Does:
- The Program Counter is like a bookmark for the CPU. It keeps track of where the next instruction (or command) is located in the computer's memory.
How It Works:
- Finds Instructions: The CPU uses the Program Counter to find and read the next instruction it needs to execute.
- Moves Forward: After reading an instruction, the Program Counter moves forward to the next instruction, so the CPU knows what to do next.
- Jumps: If the program needs to jump to a different part of the code (like in loops or decisions), the Program Counter changes to the new location.