In which computer device is information processed? Computer processor

In which device of the computer is the processing of the information that it receives? How is this process carried out? What device is used? What are the prospects for its development?

What is a computer processor ?

This is a microprocessor (integrated circuit) or an electronic unit that executes machine instructions (in other words, program code). It is a major part of computer hardware. Sometimes the prefix “micro-” is added to its name. This is a special computer device designed to process information. Let's go a bit into history. Initially, the term "processor device" described a special class of logical machines that were needed in order to execute complex computer programs. Gradually, the name of the whole device was transferred to its part. The implementation, architecture and execution of processors have changed more than once since their inception. But the functionality remains the same as before. When evaluating each device, the following parameters must be taken into account: performance, clock speed, power consumption, architecture, lithographic process standards. This is the device in which the computer processes information.

Prospects

The computer as a universal information processing device is constantly being improved. It is increasingly said that modern processors will soon reach their physical limits, so their material part will change dramatically. There are such options:

1. Molecular computers. These are computing systems that will take advantage of the capabilities of molecules (theoretically - organic). They use the idea of ​​realizing the possibilities of atoms and their arrangement in space.
2. Optical computers. In them, together with electrons, photons will be used to transmit signals.
3. Quantum computers. Theoretically, their work will be based on quantum effects. Now working versions of such processors are being actively developed. This computer processing technology is considered the most promising.

The megahertz myth

A little about the principles of computer information processing. Among ordinary users, it has become widely accepted that the higher the clock speed the processor has, the greater its performance. In fact, this is not entirely true. Such a statement can be applied only to those processors that are owners of the same architectures and microarchitectures.

What is in the Russian Federation?

Can she boast of something now? Now most of the research centers and electronic industry enterprises are consolidated in the holding "Roselectronika". It was founded in 1997. At the time of creation, it included 33, and now 123 enterprises. They specialize in the development and industrial production of electronic equipment, equipment and materials. Semiconductor devices and communications equipment may also be created. For the most part, they make specific products, but there are attempts to enter the mass market (albeit not very successful).

CPU power consumption

Often this is called their Achilles heel. So, the very first processors with x86 architecture consumed an extremely small amount of energy (compared to modern samples), the volume of which usually amounted to fractions of a watt. With an increase in the number of transistors and the clock frequency, this parameter increased significantly. Now you can meet representatives who need to be provided with 130 watts, and there is no doubt that “monsters” are already being developed in the design bureaus, which need even more. Earlier, the energy consumption factor was insignificant. But since then the principles of computer information processing have changed, the power of devices has increased. Now the processor has a significant impact on evolutionary processes:

1. It is necessary to improve production technology in order to reduce processor energy consumption.
2. New materials should be sought that will reduce leakage currents.
3. It is necessary to work on undervoltage to power the processor core.
4. There are sockets with a significant number of contacts, the number of which is more than 1000. They are necessary to provide power to the processors.
5. Changing the layout of devices. So, the crystal has moved to the outside from the inside to facilitate the heat removal process.
6. Intelligent systems have appeared that dynamically change the supply voltage. They can affect the frequency of cores and individual processor units to temporarily disable what is not in use.
7. Temperature sensors are integrated into the crystal, as well as systems to prevent overheating. They reduce the frequency of the processor, and can also stop it altogether if a certain edge is crossed.
8. There are energy-saving modes that “put to sleep” processors in the presence of low load.

The computer processor device is complex, and power consumption poses another challenge along with side effects. That's about them and there will be a conversation now.

CPU operating temperature

Another important characteristic. It indicates the maximum allowable temperature value that may be on the surface of a processor or semiconductor chip when normal performance is possible. It is directly dependent on the quality of heat sink and congestion. When the temperature exceeds the recommended maximum, there are no guarantees of normal operation. Most processors function normally if it is less than 85 ° C. If the temperature is higher, then the basis for errors when working with programs is created or the computer may freeze. In some cases, irreversible changes may occur in the processor itself. Modern models usually track overheating and limit their performance. This is the device in which the computer processes information.

CPU heat dissipation and heat dissipation

How to reduce the negative effects of increasing degrees? Active heat coolers and passive radiators are used for heat removal. Each of the methods has its advantages and disadvantages.

CPU temperature measurement and display

But how do the devices know that they need to change this characteristic? In the center of the lid, a special temperature sensor is installed, which can be a thermal diode, a thermistor, or a transistor with a closed collector and base.

Conclusion

So, what device is used to process information in a computer? That's right, a computer processor. Now you know the answer not only to this question, but also the features of this device and the existing problems and prospects. So, there is information about how such an important component of a complex technical system works and in which device of the computer the information is processed.