Computers and Processors

Curated by James Ding Last modified: Sep 30, 2026 1 min read

Computers

Comprised of the following components:

Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer that performs arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output operations specified by the instructions in the program.
Memory: Stores data and instructions that the CPU needs to execute programs.
Input/Output (I/O) Devices: Allow the computer to interact with the external world, such as keyboards, monitors, and printers.
Storage Devices: Store data and programs when they are not in use.
Motherboard: Connects all the components of the computer together.
Power Supply: Supplies power to the computer components.
Cooling System: Prevents the computer from overheating.

Control Unit (CU): Manages the execution of instructions and controls the flow of data within the CPU.
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical operations on data.
Registers: Small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU that temporarily hold data and instructions.
Cache Memory: High-speed memory that stores frequently accessed data and instructions to speed up processing.
Clock: Synchronizes the operations of the CPU and other components of the computer.
Instruction Set: The set of instructions that the CPU can execute.

Original retained in wisconsin-legacy.