Application of ICT 9/28/2024
What is a Processing Device?
Definition:
A processing device is the part of a computer that performs tasks like calculations
and running programs.
It’s like the brain of the computer that interprets instructions and carries them
out.
Key Examples:
Application of ICT
Central Processing Unit (CPU): The main processor.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): Handles visuals and images.
Understanding Processing Devices and CPU Architectures Analogy: Think of the CPU as the director of a movie—it decides what
Instructor: Farhan Mateen Khan happens and when!
The Role of the CPU (Central Processing Unit) How Does a CPU Work?
Definition: Simple Breakdown of CPU Functions:
The CPU is the core component of every computer. It processes data and executes Input: You give instructions (e.g., typing or clicking).
instructions.
Processing: The CPU performs the task.
It’s sometimes called the "brain" of the computer because it controls everything.
Output: You see the result (e.g., a message sent, an image displayed).
Main Functions:
Example:
Fetch: It retrieves instructions from memory.
Typing a message and hitting “send” = the CPU processes that action instantly!
Decode: It understands (or decodes) the instructions.
Execute: It carries out the task.
Fun Fact: Every time you send a message, the CPU processes every letter you
type!
Application of ICT 9/28/2024
CPU Components (Simple) Types of CPU Architectures
Two Key Parts of the CPU: Single-Core CPU:
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): Does all the math (like adding numbers). Handles one task at a time.
Analogy: Like trying to do your homework while watching TV—slow and tough to
Control Unit: Directs what happens, like a traffic cop guiding the flow of data. multitask!
Analogy: Multi-Core CPU:
ALU = The calculator inside your brain. Can handle multiple tasks at once, with more than one processing unit (core).
Control Unit = The part of your brain that tells you what to focus o Analogy: It’s like having several brains working on different tasks at the same time!
32-bit vs 64-bit CPUs:
32-bit: Can handle smaller chunks of data.
64-bit: Can handle larger chunks, which means faster processing for more complex
tasks.
Analogy:
32-bit is like carrying a small grocery bag.
64-bit is like using a big shopping cart—more space for tasks!
How Does CPU Architecture Affect You? Summary: Key Takeaways
For Social Science Research: Processing Devices (CPU & GPU):
Faster CPUs allow you to process large datasets, analyze survey results, and run The CPU is the brain that processes instructions.
statistical software more efficiently.
The GPU is the artist that handles visuals.
For example, a 64-bit, multi-core CPU will help when using complex programs like
SPSS or Excel. CPU Architectures:
Fun Fact: The faster your CPU, the quicker your data can be turned into useful Single-core is slower, multi-core allows multitasking.
information! 32-bit vs 64-bit: More bits = faster, more efficient processing.
Faster Processors = Faster Research: Practical Importance:
CPU and GPU performance directly impact how fast you can analyze data, create Faster processors mean quicker analysis, better performance, and a smoother
presentations, and write papers experience when working with social science tools!
Fun Fact: Did you know that without these processors, even social media wouldn’t
be as fast and smooth?
