CPU: Mr. Brain

Is faster better? If you're talking about computers it is. But, where does the speed come from? Think CPU (Central Processing Unit) or Processor. It is the brain and speed source of your computer system.

In 1971 Intel introduced the 4004 CPU. It was used primarily in desktop calculators. However, the first computer processor, 8080, didn't arrive on the scene until 1974. It was 1979 when the first industry-standard CPU, 8088, was introduced for IBM and IBM-clone computers. The speed was less than 10 MHz.

Computer processors developed and improved over the years until 1993 when the first of the line of Pentium (586) CPUs were introduced. Advances were made to further increase speed past the Gigahertz threshold. Today, we have processor speeds in excess of 3 GHz available from both Intel and AMD.

How it works

Basically, the CPU takes program code and data from the RAM. Then, it follows the directions from the programming code (executes) and returns the results to the RAM.

There are two main parts within the processor - Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) and the Control Unit.

The ALU performs all the arithmetic and logical operations on the data.

The Control Unit acts as an intermediary between the ALU and the RAM, as well as controlling the functioning of the CPU. It accepts the data from the RAM, passes the data to the ALU for any necessary arithmetic and logical operations, and returns the processed data back to the RAM.

Hot stuff

The processor generates lots of heat when in operation. If it is not adequately cooled, it could lead to all sorts of errors, including system crashes. The CPU is usually covered by a heat sink that pulls heat away from it and a small cooling fan. Newer processors also have special gel packs to reduce the temperature of the CPU.

What does the future hold? Your guess is as good as mine. But, if computers get much faster, I may consider adding a seatbelt to my desk chair!

Happy Computing,
Lee De Bevoise, Computer Tutor