Overview
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the primary component of a computer that retrieves and executes instructions. It serves as the 'brain' of the system, coordinating the activities of all other hardware components.
Key Components
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs mathematical and logical operations.
- Control Unit (CU): Directs the operation of the processor and coordinates data flow.
- Registers: Small, high-speed storage locations used to hold data and instructions during processing.
Performance Factors
- Clock Speed: Measured in GHz, indicating how many cycles the CPU can perform per second.
- Core Count: The number of independent processing units within a single CPU package.
- Cache Size: High-speed memory located on the CPU to speed up data access.