Prosessor

A prosessor is the central processing unit of a computer system, responsible for executing instructions and managing data flow among memory and peripherals. In modern usage, the term often refers to a microprocessor on a silicon die. The prosessor fetches, decodes, and executes instructions through the control unit and arithmetic logic unit (ALU), coordinating with RAM, storage, and I/O.

Inside a prosessor, multiple cores allow parallel execution. Each core may support multiple threads through simultaneous multithreading. Caches (L1, L2, L3) reduce memory latency. The prosessor uses an instruction set architecture (ISA) such as x86, ARM, or RISC-V; microarchitecture refers to internal design choices that implement the ISA and affect performance, power, and area.

Performance depends on clock speed, IPC (instructions per cycle), core count, cache size, and power efficiency. Features like turbo boost, integrated GPU, and vector units (SIMD) influence performance. Manufacturing process nodes (for example 7 nm, 5 nm) affect transistor density and power consumption, while cooling and thermal design power limit sustained performance.

History and scope: microprocessors emerged in the 1970s with devices such as the Intel 4004 and 8086, enabling personal computers. Modern prosessors are often part of system-on-a-chip (SoC) designs for mobile and embedded devices, combining CPU cores with GPU, memory controller, and other components.