- State the role of the processor in the computer system.
- Describe the processor's physical characteristics.
- Determine if you need to upgrade your computer's processor.
- Describe how to upgrade your computer's processor.
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Where are processors?
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Processors are all around you. They can be found in your wrist watch, telephone, television, and your computer system.
The processor (also called the Central Processing Unit (CPU)) is commonly referred to as the "brain" of the computer system. It's the chip in your computer that controls most of what is done.
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What is the role of the processor?
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Input devices are the "eyes and ears" of the computer system. They accept information and convert it into a language the processor can interpret. Examples of input devices include keyboards and mice.
The processor controls or communicates with the other devices in your computer system like the keyboard and mouse. It simply accesses data from these devices, figures out what to do with it, and then executes a command. Examples would include editing a letter, drawing a picture, and saving a file.
Processed information is sent to an output device like the monitor or a printer. Information can also be saved to storage devices such as hard disk drives and diskette drives. Output devices translate the computer language into a format we understand and then display it on the monitor or save it to a disk.
Storage can also serve as an input device. For example, you can open a previously saved file.
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Click the devices below to see how information is processed.
Input Devices
Output Devices
Processor
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The role of the processor is to "process" information from input devices using the instructions it receives from software programs. The processed information is then sent to an output or storage device, executing a command. Examples would include saving a file, displaying a character on the monitor, and printing a document.
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What does a processor look like?
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Processor Chip
Connector Pins
Resin Case
System Board
Processor
Click the processor to see what it looks like up close.
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If you were inside your computer you would not actually see the processor chip because it is enclosed in the center of a protective case.
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The processor case is a small square that has tiny metal connector pins on one side of it. The case is typically made of resin or ceramic and protects the processor chip from getting damaged. It should NEVER be opened. If opened, the processor is destroyed.
The processor is normally located in a socket on the main circuit board of the computer - the system board.
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What is a processor class?
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If you purchased a computer in the last couple of years, you probably have a processor from the 486 class. Owning a 486 processor is a good thing because you can run software from the 386 class and you can easily upgrade your system to future classes.
The 586 class gives you more muscle for your money. It offers up to twice the performance of the 486 class because of its internal architecture. Unfortunately, due to its advanced design and performance capabilities, a 586 processor is going to cost you more than a 486 processor.
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The 486 Class
The 586 Class
Click on each processor for its description.
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There are many types of processors and each processor belongs to a class.
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What are processor types?
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COST
SPEED
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This chart should give you an idea of the different processor types in the 586 class.
Notice as you read from left to right on this chart the processor's speed increases. Speed is measured in Megahertz (MHz). The higher the value, the faster the processor. For example, a 66-MHz 586 is faster than a 60-MHz 586.
Unfortunately, as the speed of the processor increases, so does its price.
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Why would I want to upgrade?
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At some point you may need to have more processing power to do more complex activities such as:
- running software applications simultaneously.
- playing computer games.
- creating complex spreadsheets.
- using CAD/CAM.
To make the decision that best suits your needs, you'll ultimately have to weigh the productivity and speed gains against the cost of upgrading.
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What do I need to know before I get started?
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- choosing the right replacement processor
- handling it safely
- reading all the steps in the installation guide
WARNING!
It is strongly recommended that you have an Authorized Compaq Service Provider install your replacement processor for you. Improper installation can result in damage to the processor or the system board!
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If you decide to upgrade your computer's processor, you need to consider the following factors:
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Which processor is right for my system?
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Authorized Service Provider
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It is extremely important you choose a replacement processor that is compatible with the processor currently in your computer system.
Just because a replacement processor fits into a system board socket does not mean that it will work in your system. For example, if you install a 3.3 volt processor into a 5 volt socket the processor will be damaged.
To avoid processor damage, consult with an Authorized Compaq Service Provider to obtain information on what replacement processor is right for your computer system.
