CPU (Central Processing Unit)
CPU (Central Processing Unit) A central processing unit ( CPU )—also called a central processor or main processor —is the most important processor in a given computer . Its electronic circuitry executes instructions of a computer program , such as arithmetic , logic, controlling, and input/output (I/O) operations. This role contrasts with that of external components, such as main memory and I/O circuitry, and specialized coprocessors such as graphics processing units (GPUs). The form, design , and implementation of CPUs have changed over time, but their fundamental operation remains almost unchanged. Principal components of a CPU include the arithmetic–logic unit (ALU) that performs arithmetic and logic operations , processor registers that supply operands to the ALU a...