Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC) is a type of processor.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2024). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [4] One mark per mark point (Max 4)
2. [4] MP1 many instruction formats possible
3. [4] MP2 large instruction set
4. [4] MP3 many addressing modes available
5. [4] MP4 uses variable length/multi-operation instructions
6. [4] MP5 multi-clock cycle instructions
7. [4] MP6 complex decoding of instructions
8. [4] MP7 uses complex circuits
9. [4] MP8 makes frequent use of cache memory
10. [4] MP9 uses programmable control unit // uses micro-programmed control unit // uses hardwired control unit
11. [4] MP10 hardware needs to be able to handle more complex instructions convert into sub-instructions // Design emphasis is on the hardware.