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What Is CPU

The CPU, or central processing unit, is the brain of the computer that performs all data processing, storage, and control functions. It has three main parts: the storage unit or memory, the control unit that coordinates internal processes, and the arithmetic logic unit that performs arithmetic and logic operations. Modern CPUs have multiple processing cores to improve efficiency and allow for greater volumes of work.

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VIJAY VADGAONKAR
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832 views

What Is CPU

The CPU, or central processing unit, is the brain of the computer that performs all data processing, storage, and control functions. It has three main parts: the storage unit or memory, the control unit that coordinates internal processes, and the arithmetic logic unit that performs arithmetic and logic operations. Modern CPUs have multiple processing cores to improve efficiency and allow for greater volumes of work.

Uploaded by

VIJAY VADGAONKAR
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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What is CPU (Central Processing Unit) | Computer

Basics?

A Central Processing Unit, or CPU, is functionally the most important


component of a computer system. Without a CPU, any computer is more
or less non-functional. It is generally referred to as the ‘brain’ of the
computer due to the vast number of functions it performs.

A CPU is essentially a hardware that performs functions related to input


and output, processing and storage of data for a computer system. It is
the main control center for all operations that happen in a computer
system.

A CPU can be installed or inserted into a CPU socket. These sockets are
usually located on the motherboard. Further, a CPU is provided with a
heat sink. This heat sink helps in absorbing and dissipating heat. This
helps in keeping the CPU cool and functioning smoothly. A CPU performs
several essential features. Some of those features are:

• It can perform various types of data processing operations.CPU can


store data, instructions, programs, and intermediate results.

• It controls the functions of all the significant parts of a computer.

The central processing unit has three significant parts. And those parts
of CPU are:

• Storage unit or memory.

• Control unit.

• ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)

The most basic function of a CPU is to act on commands that are


programmed into it through the RAM or the Random Access Memory of
the computer system. When the CPU receives an instruction presented in
binary form, the instruction is converted into signals that each part of the
processor can work on. Finally, after the instruction is decoded, it is
executed.

In the past, most CPUs had a single processing core. This made them
considerably slower. Today, almost all CPUs work with multiple cores,
which makes them more efficient and able to perform a greater volume
of work.

What are the Different Parts of the CPU?


A CPU has various components which are dedicated to performing
certain specific functions. The various components are:

• The Storage or the Memory Unit:


As per its name, this unit is dedicated to storing all information and
data that is saved on the computer system. This data is supplied
whenever the user needs it. It is also sometimes referred to as the
internal storage unit.

There are also two types of memories in a computer, including


primary memory and secondary memory. Some functions that are
performed by the memory unit are:

It is used for storing intermediate results of processing.


It can store all the data and instructions that are required for
processing.All inputs and outputs are transmitted with the help of
the main memory.
It helps in storing the final results of processing. This is done before
these results are released to an output device.
• The Control Unit:
This part of the CPU is responsible for handling all operations of the
system. But does not actually carry out specific functions related to
data processing. This unit uses electrical signals to execute all
processes for the system. It controls the transfer of data,
input/output functions and coordinates all internal working of the
hardware.
• Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):
As the name indicates, this unit mainly consists of two subsections.
The first is the arithmetic section, and the second is the logic
section. The function of the arithmetic section is to perform various
arithmetic operations. Some arithmetic operations that are usually
performed include addition, division, multiplication, and
subtraction.
You should note that all complex operations are performed by
making repetitive use of the operations that are mentioned above.
The logic section, on the other hand, performs the function of
carrying out logic operations. Some logic operations are
comparing, merging, selecting, and matching data.

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