Abbreviation for
central processing unit, and
pronounced as separate letters. The CPU is the brains of the
computer. Sometimes referred to simply as
the
central processor,but more commonly called
processor, the CPU is where most calculations take place. In terms of
computing power, the CPU is the most important element of a
computer system.
On large machines, CPUs require one or more
printed circuit boards. On
personal computers and small
workstations, the CPU is housed in a
single chip called a
microprocessor. Since the 1970's
the microprocessor class of CPUs has almost completely overtaken all other CPU
implementations.
The CPU itself is an internal component of the
computer. Modern CPUs are small and square
and contain multiple metallic connectors or pins on the underside. The CPU is
inserted directly into a CPU socket, pin side down, on the
motherboard. Each motherboard will support only a
specific type or range of CPU so you must check the motherboard manufacturer's
specifications before attempting to replace or upgrade a CPU. Modern CPUs also
have an attached heat sink and small fan that go
directly on top of the CPU to help dissipate heat.
Two typical components of a CPU are the following:
See "What
Is CPU Overclocking?" in the "Did
You Know...?" section of Webopedia.
Also see
All About Dual-Core Processors in the "Did
You Know...?" section of Webopedia.
To understand how your computer system communicates with your CPU, see "Understanding
PC Buses" in the
Did You
Know...?" section of Webopedia.
