Computer Science Presentation

Name :: Syed Akber Ali Zaidi

Class :: BS Software Engineering
ID :: SP11-BS-0036
Date :: 20/01/11

“What is Micro-Processor ?”

What is Micro-Processor ?
Definition of Microprocessor ::
Micro-Processor is an integrated circuit semiconductor chip or silicon chip that performs the
bulk of the processing and controls the parts of a system; "A microprocessor functions as the
central processing unit of a microcomputer"

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.

Function of small computer processors is made possible with the use of registers. Within the
registers resides all the data required by the microprocessor to execute such basic functions as
addition and subtraction. The configuration of the registers also allow the microprocessor to
handle tasks such as comparing two different numbers, and retrieving numbers from various
areas and redistributing them.

Pg2
At the core of the design for the microprocessor is a series of logical instructions that regulate
the order that tasks are received and executed. The presence of the instructions assure that
tasks are carried out in a sequence that will flow from the completion of one task and into the
logical initiation of the next task in the sequence. For example, when an end user boots up a
computer, the first instruction that the microprocessor will execute is the activation of
the BIOS, or basic input/output system. From that point, the BIOS will load the operating
system into the active memory and move on to the next task in the starting process. Each
successive task will be achieved once the previous task is complete.