Click here

microprocessor

A silicon chip that contains a CPU. 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. Microprocessors also control the logic of almost all digital devices, from clock radios to fuel-injection systems for automobiles.

Three basic characteristics differentiate microprocessors:

  • 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.
  • In both cases, the higher the value, the more powerful the CPU. For example, a 32-bit microprocessor that runs at 50MHz is more powerful than a 16-bit microprocessor that runs at 25MHz.

    In addition to bandwidth and clock speed, microprocessors are classified as being either RISC (reduced instruction set computer) or CISC (complex instruction set computer).

    See the Microprocessor Comparison Chart page in the Quick Reference section of Webopedia for a comparison of microprocessors.



    Top Terms
    • 1

      private cloud project

      Companies initiate private cloud projects to enable their IT infrastructure to become more capable of quickly adapting to continually evolving...

      Read more »

    • 2

      cloud backup

      A cloud backup (cloud computer backup) refers to backing up data to a remote, cloud-based server. As a form of cloud storage, cloud backup data is...

      Read more »

    • Click Here!

    Connect with Webopedia

    • Android Apps for Remote Computer Access

      Remote access is useful when you need to collaborate with co-workers, help a friend with PC problems or grab files from your desktop.

      Read More »

    Did You Know? Archive »

    • Quick Reference Archive »