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Microprocessor, any of a type of miniature electronic device that contains the arithmetic, logic, and
control circuitry necessary to perform the functions of a digital computer’s central processing unit. In
effect, this kind of integrated circuit can interpret and execute program instructions as well as handle
arithmetic operations.

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In the early 1970s the introduction of large-scale integration (LSI)—which made it possible to pack
thousands of transistors, diodes, and resistors onto a silicon chip less than 0.2 inch (5 mm) square—led to
the development of the microprocessor. The first microprocessor was the Intel 4004, which was
introduced in 1971. During the early 1980s very large-scale integration (VLSI) vastly increased the circuit
density of microprocessors. In the 2010s a single VLSI circuit holds billions of electronic components on a
chip identical in size to the LSI circuit. (For more about the history of microprocessors, see computer: The
microprocessor.)

The production of inexpensive microprocessors enabled computer engineers to develop microcomputers.

Such computer systems are small but have enough computing power to perform many business,
industrial, and scientific tasks. The microprocessor also permitted the development of so-called intelligent
terminals, such as automatic teller machines and point-of-sale terminals employed in retail stores. The
microprocessor also provides automatic control of industrial robots, surveying instruments, and various
kinds of hospital equipment. It has brought about the computerization of a wide array of consumer
products, including programmable microwave ovens, television sets, and electronic games. In addition,
some automobiles feature microprocessor-controlled ignition and fuel systems designed to improve
performance and fuel economy.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Erik Gregersen, Senior Editor.

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William
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Microprocessors are the most-complicated ICs. They are composed of billions of transistors that have been

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6/12/2020 microprocessor | Definition & Facts | Britannica

configured as thousands of individual digital circuits, each of which performs some specific logic function. A
microprocessor is built entirely of these logic circuits synchronized to each other.…

computer: Microcomputer

…small computer built around a microprocessor integrated circuit, or chip. Whereas the early minicomputers
replaced vacuum tubes with discrete transistors, microcomputers (and later minicomputers as well) used
microprocessors that integrated thousands or millions of transistors on a single chip. In 1971 the Intel…

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Microprocessor

KEY PEOPLE
Robert Noyce

RELATED TOPICS

Integrated circuit
Central processing unit
Pentium
Intel 8088
Intel 1103
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