Computer Processor (CPU)

A computer processor is essential for the operation of a computer. Computers get operational directions through the processor. Other names for the computer processor are the brain, the heart, the microprocessor or the Central Processing Unit (CPU). Computer processors are produced in many different physical shapes and provide multiple speeds for information execution. Whether for a PC, Mac or other computer, processors perform nearly the same operations in a similar manner.

CPU is mainly divided into 2 parts, one is Control Unit (CU):

Part of the hardware that is in-charge

Directs the computer system to execute

Must communicate with memory and ALU stored program instructions

Sends data and instructions from secondary storage to memory as needed

Second is Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):

Executes all arithmetic and logical operations

Arithmetic operations include addition, subtraction, multiplication, division

Logical operations like comparing numbers, letters, or special characters and

Tests for one of three conditions: Equal-to condition, Less-than condition, Greater-than condition

The computer processor performs computation operations by use of its stored internal memory, the arithmetic logic unit and the input-output unit. It is manufactured on a single semiconductor chip. The processor puts a computer operator's instructions into motion by using a computer file or programs. This is a response to a software program that gives instructions.

Calculation of addition, multiplication, division and subtraction is done by the computer processor through a stored program (directions). These directions are stored in computer memory through the use of numbers. When an operator directs the computer to do something, the computer processor gets the information, decodes it, performs the desired operation and then provides the desired results.

The term "central processing unit" started being used in the early 1960s. Initially, the wiring of early computers had to be manually changed to a new configuration for each different application. With the development of new materials came the transition to the transistor and then to the integrated circuit. Computer processors were once designed for each individual computer application. They now are produced on a large scale and are designed for multiple uses.

The size and capacity of the computer processor have continued to change. The processor's size was greatly reduced. Processors became very small and were called microprocessors. The Intel 4004 microprocessor was the first microprocessor, and was introduced in 1971. Before this one-chip concept, individual transistors were connected or collections of chips were set up to work together. The size decreased while the speed increased. Microprocessors are usually produced on one integrated circuit. An integrated circuit is a small electron circuit made up of electronic components contained on a thin chip or wafer of semiconducting material.

The speed of a computer's processor unit is measured in megahertz, or cycles per second. When you are evaluating a CPU, the processor's effectiveness is a factor, as well as the data pathway. Also, the amount of memory available for use and the software used in instructing the computer all impact the total effectiveness of the computer processor.