What is a CPU?
Q: What is a CPU?
A: A CPU (central processing unit) is an important part of every computer. It sends signals to control the other parts of the computer, almost like how a brain controls a body. The CPU is an electronic machine that works on a list of instructions to do certain tasks.
Q: How does the CPU work?
A: The CPU reads the list of instructions and runs (executes) each one in order. A list of instructions that a CPU can run is a computer program.
Q: What is the clock rate or speed of a CPU measured in?
A: The clock rate or speed of a CPU's internal parts is measured in hertz (Hz). Modern processors often run so fast that gigahertz (GHz) is used instead - one GHz being 1,000,000,000 cycles per second.
Q: Who are some companies that make CPUs?
A: Some companies that make CPUs are Intel, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), ARM (recently bought by Nvidia), IBM and AMD under ATI Technologies which currently leads the market.
Q: Where are most CPUs used?
A: Most CPUs used in desktop computers are microprocessors made by either Intel or AMD while most others are used in embedded systems for more specialized things such as mobile phones, cars, video game consoles or military applications.
