Last updated on August 10th, 2023 at 07:50 pm
The central processing unit is one of the major hardware components of the computer system. While small in size, it is by far one of the most important components of the computer system.
There have been a few misconceptions about the central processing unit (CPU) and what exactly it is. So if you have encountered these discrepancies, keep reading for a correct explanation of the central processing unit.
In this article, we will explore the following:
- What the CPU is;
- The uses of the CPU;
- The components of the CPU;
- Types of CPU; and
- The first CPU.
What is the central processing unit?
The central processing unit (CPU), known as the brain of the computer, is the interpreter and executioner of instructions that allows all the software to run smoothly. The CPU performs arithmetic and logic operations as well as input and output instructions.
The CPU sits on the motherboard and connects to the other parts of your computer by means of buses.
Related article: The IPOS cycle
Uses of the CPU
In order for the computer to perform its many tasks, this vital computer hardware performs four important tasks:
- Fetch: When a user sends instructions for a particular task, each instruction is stored in memory with a unique address. When it is time to execute the task, the CPU grabs the address of the instruction that is to be executed next. This is what is referred to as fetch.
- Decode: Before any instruction is executed by the computer, it is changed into a form that the computer can understand. First, the information is converted to assembly language and then changed to machine language (ones and zeroes). This is the language that the computer understands. Instructions can only be processed when it is
- Execute: This step involves moving and doing calculations.
- Store: After completing a task, the CPU returns the output to the output module, which in turn sends it to the output device. However, the CPU also stores the data after the task is completed.
Components of the CPU
There are several components of the CPU that helps it to do its work. These are:
- The cache or onboard memory;
- The registers;
- The Arithmetic and logic uni (ALU)t; and
- The control unit (CU).
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The cache
The CPU has its own built-in memory called cache. In spite of the fact that the CPU is referred to as the brain of the computer, it still needs information stored on the read-only memory (ROM) to tell it how to do its work. The cache is an extension that makes it possible for the CPU to work faster since instead of accessing information about how to execute a task from the ROM, the CPU is able to access it faster from the cache. This significantly increases the speed of the computer.
The cache is very small since it is only used to store information that the CPU has recently used or information that is used regularly.
The Register
The register is used to store operands and supply them to the ALU. It also stores the results of mathematical operations performed by the CPU.
The ALU
The arithmetic and logic unit is used to process mathematical operations (arithmetic and logic operations).
By choosing the correct central processing unit, you will be able to easily complete the tasks that you are interested in, e.g., blogging, graphic designing, video editing, social media, gaming, assignments, and work.
The CU
The control unit is responsible for the fetching, decoding, and execution of instructions within the computer system. It controls the interaction between the various components of the computer system.
Types of CPU
As with many of the technologies available today, the CPU has evolved over time. The speed with which the CPU is able to execute required tasks is heavily dependent on the type of CPU present in the system. The speed of the CPU often affects the price.
Six types of CPUs are:
- Single core;
- Dual-core;
- Quad-core;
- Octa-core;
- Hexa-core; and
- Deca-core processors.
The first CPU
On November 15, 1971, Intel placed its notice in the Electronic news notifying the world that it had created the first CPU. This CPU was named the Intel 4004. It measured a speed of 740 Khz.