CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT: PARTS, FUNCTIONS AND DESCRIPTION

Introduction:

The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of your computer. It handles all the instructions you give your computer, and the faster it does this, the better. Learn about how a CPU processes instructions and how computer engineers are continuously coming up with ways to make it go faster.

Definitions

The central processing unit (CPU) of a computer is a piece of hardware that carries out the instructions of a computer program. It performs the basic arithmetical, logical, and input/output operations of a computer system. The CPU is like the brains of the computer - every instruction, no matter how simple, has to go through the CPU. So let's say you press the letter 'k' on your keyboard and it appears on the screen - the CPU of your computer is what makes this possible. The CPU is sometimes also referred to as the central processor unit, or processor for short. So when you are looking at the specifications of a computer at your local electronics store, it typically refers to the CPU as the processor.

PARTS:

Random Access Memory is also known as the computer’s system memory. It needs power to be read; hence, when a computer turns off, the memory is lost

Hard disk drive is the main storage device of a computer. It uses uses disks that are made of aluminum or glass to store information. Hard drives are measured in gigabytes.  Sometimes a special cache is used for quick retrieval of often-used information (such as web pages).

Microprocessor functions as the central processing unit of the computer which provides computation control. Its speed is measured in megahertz. It holds info about the operating system of the computer.

The microprocessor is one type of ultra-large-scale integrated circuit that consists of extremely tiny components formed on a single, thin, flat piece of material known as a semiconductor.

Compact Disk Read-Only Memory is collectively known as CD ROM. With the help of laser optics technology, CD ROM reads information from a CD. However, it is not capable of writing informatioin on the CD

Floppy disk drive helps store and read data on a removable floppy disk.

Video Card is an expansion card that is connected to the motherboard. It  serves as the visual link between the user and its computer, allowing the user to view and manage the computer’s software data.

A LAN Card or Network Interface Card is also an expansion card. Also known as the modem, it helps the computer to connect to another computer on a Network.

The Motherboard is the computer’s circuit board where all the ‘inside parts’ are connected. It contains the microprocessor; important computing components; different types of memory chips; mouse, keyboard, and monitor control circuitry; and logic chips that control various parts of the computer’s function. Having as many of the key components of the computer as possible on the motherboard improves the speed and operation of the computer