QandAs: Tech

What is a CPU?

Answer:
The Central Processing Unit, or CPU is the part

of a computer which processes data. Every and all applications on a Computer require some processing power. The CPU serves as the lifeblood of the computer by providing processing power to run applications, compute calculations and much more.

In the past, each CPU was unique to each computer. Today, most computers use microprocessors developed by companies like Intel. CPUs are also used outside of personal computers like Cell phones, cars, and even some toys use microprocessors similar to those found in personal computers.

Beginning in the 1970s with the invention of the microprocessor, CPUs have been increasing in performance exponentially. Moore’s law, developed in 1965 says basically that manufacturers will be able to double the processing power of a CPU every two years. For the last 40 years, this law has held true. Today’s microprocessors are small, fast, and cheap compared to their predecessors.