Keskprotsessorüksus

Keskprotsessorüksus, commonly known as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), is the primary component of a computer responsible for executing instructions. It is often referred to as the "brain" of the computer. The CPU performs arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output (I/O) operations specified by the instructions in a computer program.

The main functions of a CPU include fetching instructions from memory, decoding these instructions to understand what action needs to be performed, and then executing the decoded instructions. This execution typically involves performing calculations, manipulating data, and controlling other components of the computer system. Modern CPUs are highly complex integrated circuits, containing millions or even billions of transistors.

Key components within a CPU include the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) for performing calculations and logical operations, and the control unit (CU) for managing the execution of instructions and coordinating the activities of other computer components. The CPU also contains registers, which are small, high-speed memory locations used to temporarily store data and instructions that are currently being processed. The speed at which a CPU operates is measured in clock speed, typically expressed in gigahertz (GHz), indicating the number of cycles per second it can perform. The performance of a CPU is also influenced by factors such as the number of cores, cache size, and architecture.