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What is a...

...?

Definition:

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the chip which is the brains of the computer. It is also known as the processor.

 Explanation:

The CPU processes data and instructions. It does calculations and does what the software programs tell it to do. The CPU is the most important part of a computer.

 Sentence:

"You might say that the CPU runs the computer!"

 

 

Note: Occasionally you will hear people refer to the case that holds the main computer components as the CPU. This is just a way of distinguishing the computer from its peripherals.

 

Find out More!

• Go directly to "CPU" and "chip" in TechWeb's incredible TechEncyclopedia.
  
  
• Look it up yourself in the FOLDOC dictionary.

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