CPUs (3.4)

These flashcards cover the key concepts and terminology related to CPUs, their architecture, and performance features necessary for understanding computer hardware installation and configuration.

CPU

Central Processing Unit, the primary component that executes instructions for programs.

Fetch

The operation where the control unit retrieves the next instruction from memory.

Decode

The operation where the control unit interprets the fetched instruction.

Execute

The operation where the Arithmetic Logic Unit or Floating Point Unit carries out the instruction.

Write-back

The operation where the result of the executed instruction is stored back to a register or memory.

ARM Architecture

A type of CPU architecture that uses Reduced Instruction Set Computing, known for power efficiency.

RISC

Reduced Instruction Set Computing, utilizing a smaller set of instructions for improved speed and efficiency.

CISC

Complex Instruction Set Computing, which utilizes a larger set of instructions allowing for complex operations.

Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT)

A technology that allows multiple threads to be executed simultaneously on a single core, improving performance.

LGA

Land Grid Array, a CPU socket type where pins are located on the motherboard.

PGA

Pin Grid Array, a CPU socket type where pins are located on the CPU itself.

Intel's Turbo Boost technology

Allows a CPU to automatically increase its clock speed for improved performance under load.

Cache Memory

A high-speed memory component that stores frequently accessed data and instructions to improve CPU efficiency.

Multicore Processor

A CPU with multiple processing units (cores) that allows for parallel processing of tasks.

Hyper-Threading

Intel's technology that enables a single CPU core to handle two threads simultaneously, improving multitasking.

Socket Type Compatibility

Refers to the necessity of matching CPU and motherboard socket types for proper installation.

ECC RAM

Error-Correcting Code Random Access Memory, often used in servers for increased reliability.

AMD EPYC

A line of server-class CPUs designed for high performance and scalability.

Intel Xeon

A series of high-performance CPUs designed for servers and workstations.

Virtualization

A technology that allows multiple virtual machines to run on a single hardware platform.

System-on-Chip (SoC)

A single chip that integrates all components of a computer, increasingly common in mobile devices.