Clock Cycle - definition

The space of time between two consecutive pulses of a clock signal in a digital system is referred to as a clock cycle, also known as a clock period. To synchronize the actions of digital circuits, including processors, memory chips, and other digital components, a periodic signal called the clock is employed.
Because it controls how quickly system operations are carried out, the clock cycle is a crucial component of digital systems. A system can operate more swiftly in general with a shorter clock cycle, but it may also use more power and produce more heat. Typically, the clock cycle is expressed in terms of time units like nanoseconds (ns) or picoseconds (ps). The clock frequency, which is the inverse of the clock cycle, is expressed as the quantity of clock cycles that take place in a second and is measured in hertz (Hz) or megahertz (MHz).
Because they can impact the system's performance, power usage, and thermal properties, the clock cycle and clock frequency are crucial factors to take into account when designing digital systems. To construct systems that achieve the necessary performance requirements while reducing power consumption and thermal concerns, designers must carefully balance these elements.