The CPU

The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, principal part of any digital computer system, generally composed of the main memory, control unit, and arithmetic-logic unit. It constitutes the physical heart of the entire computer system; to it is linked various peripheral equipment, including input/output devices and auxiliary storage units. In modern computers/ mobiles, the CPU is contained on an integrated circuit chip called a microprocessor.

The control unit of the central processing unit regulates and integrates the operations of the computer. It selects and retrieves instructions from the main memory in proper sequence and interprets them so as to activate the other functional elements of the system at the appropriate moment to perform their respective operations. All input data are transferred via the main memory to the arithmetic-logic unit for processing, which involves the four basic arithmetic functions (i.e., addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) and certain logic operations such as the comparing of data and the selection of the desired problem-solving procedure or a viable alternative based on predetermined decision criteria.

Let’s say we are using a calculator to add two numbers. You enter the numbers using your keyboard. The keyboard controller turns all of that information into binary code. Binary code consists of sequences of 0 and 1. This information is then sent to the registry and then transferred to the CPU. The CPU has an integrated ALU (Arithmetical Logical Unit). The ALU is responsible for all mathematical and logical operations. Your request to add two numbers comes to the CPU and is transferred to the ALU. The ALU adds the binary numbers and returns the answer to the CPU, which transfers the answer to an output device.

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Adding two numbers is a very simple example, but it illustrates the basic functions of the CPU. Every single step you perform on your computer is in one way or another connected to this central unit, so it is very important to keep your processor in good form 

Usually, the processor understands and performs assembly instructions that last four cycles. The faster your CPU, the more instructions it can perform in one second, but do not let this number fool you. The speed of the CPU is not the only metric that influences your computer’s performance. The number of operations a CPU can perform depends upon its speed, which is measured in Hertz. One hertz is the speed at which one operation is performed in one second.

There are many other factors, such as numbers of sockets,CPU architecture, cache size, number of cores and bus speed that must be evaluated to get independent results. Do not simply chase the highest speed when buying a computing unit.  

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