Microprocessor

 

 

Microprocessor

The microprocessor is the center of the computer. It processes instructions and communicates with the outside devices, controlling most of the operation of the computer. The microprocessor usually has a large heat sink attached to it. Some microprocessors come in a package with a  sink and a fan included as a part of the package. Other microprocessors require you to install the heat sink and fan separately. In the world of personal computers, the terms microprocessor and CPU are used interchangeably. At the heart of all personal computers and most workstations sits a microprocessor.

The CPU (Central Processing  Unit) is the core of any computer, while the microprocessor refers to the whole functional chip that is inserted into a motherboard. The CPU is the sub architecture of the microprocessor that interprets the program instructions. Interestingly, all CPUs are microprocessors, all microprocessors are not CPUs. CPU stands for "Central Processing Unit" but it is not the only microprocessor in a modern computer system.

 

Functions of Microprocessor

●       It controls the input and output devices of a computer.

●       It controls the storage of data inside a computer.

●       It performs the arithmetical and logical operations of computers.

●       It processes every type of data.

●       It handles every other part of the computer.

Characteristics of Microprocessor

●       Instruction set: The set of instructions that the microprocessor can execute.

●       Bandwidth: The number of bits processed in a single instruction.

●       Clock speed: Given in megahertz (MHz), the clock speed determines how many instructions per second the processor can execute.

●       Word length: It depends upon the width of the internal data bus, registers, ALU, etc. An 8- bit microprocessor can process 8-bit data at a time. The word length ranges from 4 bits to 64 bits depending upon the type of the microcomputer. A processor of longer word length is more powerful and can process the data at faster speed as compared to the processor of the shorter word length.

 Components of Microprocessor

The components of microprocessor include control unit, arithmetic and logic unit and registers which are already explained above.

Types of Microprocessor

1.     Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC): It is a type of microprocessor design. The CISC architecture contains a large set of computer instructions that range from very simple to very complex. Intel Pentium processors are mainly CISC-based, with some RISC facilities built into them.

 

2.  Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC): It is a microprocessor that is designed to process a small number of computer instructions so that it can operate at a higher speed (process millions of instructions per second). A larger list or set of computer instructions tends to make the microprocessor more complicated and slower in operation.