Microprocessors

Microprocessors

1. The Microprocessor

   • The microprocessor is the Chip that executes the programs, carries out a great variety of calculations, numerical comparisons and data transfer in response to the requests of the programs stored in memory.
     • The CPU (Microprocessor) controls the basic operations of the computer by sending and receiving control signals, memory addresses and data from one place to another through a group of electronic pathways called the bus.

2. The microprocessor is made up of:

   • The control unit
     • It interprets the instructions and generates the control signals for them to be executed.
   • The calculation unit
     • ALU (Arithmetic and Logic Unit) following the orders of the control unit, receives the data from the memory, operates with them and stores the result in the memory.
   • Records
     • They are high-speed storage units that allow you to store information necessary for processing.

3. How does a microprocessor communicate?

   • A microprocessor communicates with the outside world in three ways:
     • Through interruptions; Interruptions are signals that are sent to the CPU so that it interrupts the execution of the current instruction and attends to a specific request. When the request is finished, it will execute the corresponding instruction.
     • through entry / exit doors.
     • Through direct or indirect memory access; direct access is achieved through the DMA (Direct Memory Access) driver.

4. Support Chips

   • The microprocessor cannot control the entire computer without help.
     • These supporting chips can be responsible for the following processes:
       • Control the flow of information from one device to another (such as a monitor or a disk drive) connected to the computer.
       • Control the flow of information through internal circuits (such as the interrupt controller and the DMA controller).

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