Newsletter

Encyclopedia

Results found for: CPU
 

CPU

(Central Processing Unit) The computing part of the computer. Also called the "processor," it is made up of the control unit and ALU. Today, the CPUs of almost all computers are contained on a single chip.

     The CPU, clock and main memory make up a computer. A complete computer system requires the addition of control units, input, output and storage devices and an operating system.


From the Mainframe Point of View

Computer professionals involved with mainframes and minicomputers often refer to the whole computer as the CPU, in which case, CPU refers to the processor, memory (RAM) and I/O architecture (channels or buses).




CPUs Come in Different Sizes
Depending on which end of the field you are in, a CPU can mean the processor, memory and everything inside the cabinet, or just the microprocessor itself.





similar terms
Entries before CPU
CPIM
CPLD
CPM
CPO
cps
Entries after CPU
CPU bound
CPU cache
CPU chip
CPU clock
CPU cooler
 




Or get a random definition
techweb
copyright THIS COPYRIGHTED DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY.
All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.

Copyright (©) 1981-2007 The Computer Language Company
Inc All rights reserved.
 Featured Jobs
Ascension Health seeking Solutions Development Analyst in St. Louis, MO

National Semiconductor seeking Principal IC Design Engineer in Santa Clara, CA

Taylor Guitars seeking Sr. Web Designer in El Cajon, CA

Covidien seeking Hardware Manager in Boulder, CO

Sierra Nevada seeking Software Engineer in Hagerstown, MD

More jobs on EETimesCareers
 Sponsor