Computer Hardware Terms, Glossary and Dictionary

A microprocessor (abbreviated as µP or uP) is a computer electronic component made from miniaturized transistors and other circuit elements on a single semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) (microchip or just chip). The central processing unit (CPU) is the most well known microprocessor, but many other components in a computer have them, such as the GPU on a video card. In the world of personal computers, the terms microprocessor and CPU are used interchangeably. At the heart of all personal computers and most workstations sits a microprocessor. Microprocessors also control the logic of almost all digital devices, from clock radios to fuel-injection systems for automobiles.

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microprocessor