What is CPU

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. This is the part of a computer

that handles the data and activities of the various physical components of
the computer. It transfers instructions between a computer's hardware
and software. It is also known as a processor, microprocessor, or central
processor. Inputs enter a computer and travel to the CPU. The CPU
executes the instructions and delivers the results to the associated output.
Basically, the CPU is the heart of a computer. It takes in the necessary
information and processes it, thus allowing the computer to function.

CPU Parts
The first CPUs were made from vacuum tubes. These were large and
required both energy and space. By 1956, the first computers using a
transistor-based CPU were introduced. By 1971, there were fully
functioning microprocessors. With integration of the CPU and other
functions on the same chip, the differences between the CPU and the
other computer parts were blurred. Many computer users call the entire
system a CPU, even though it now includes multiple additional parts.
Here are the most common parts and their functions.
ALU
ALU stands for the arithmatic and logic unit. This unit is responsible for
mathematical, logical, and decision operations. This unit is divided into
two main parts or groups of functions. The arithmatic portion completes
the mathematical operations including addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division. The logic portion completes operations
comparing, selecting, matching, and merging data and information. The
ALU can have multiple designs, and some are more powerful and
efficient than others.
Control Unit
The control unit (CU) is the director of operations. This is where the
input is read and interpreted. It sends data to the ALU, memory unit, and
other locations as needed. It translates things into binary in order to store
them and sends instructions to many different output devices. The
control unit is the coordinator of all input and output devices. It transfers
data and instructions to other parts of the CPU.
Microprocessor
A microprocessor is a single, integrated computer chip that holds both
the arithmatic and logic unit and the control unit parts of the CPU.
Because of the improving technology, there are many benefits to having
a microprocessor. They are cost-effective, have a low power
consumption, are small and portable, have a low failure rate, and the
same chip can be used in different configurations based on the software.
Computer chips and microprocessors are made of silicon and metals.
The focus on new technology for computer components made from
silicon is the basis for the nickname of Silicon Valley in California.
Mother Board
A motherboard is a board or platform to connect the parts of a computer
together. It has a place for the CPU and many places to connect the
memory, hard drives, optical drives, cards for video and sound, and
other ports. A motherboard is basically the backbone of the computer. It
physically holds everything together.
Cache Memory

Cache memory is a small-sized type of volatile computer memory that

provides high-speed data access to a processor and stores frequently
used computer programs, applications and data.

A temporary storage of memory, cache makes data retrieving easier and

more efficient. It is the fastest memory in a computer, and is typically
integrated onto the motherboard and directly embedded in the processor
or main random access memory (RAM).