The chips have data written on them during manufacturing that tells the CPU what to do when the PC is switched on is referred to as
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Alternately referred to as a processor, central processor, or microprocessor, the CPU (pronounced sea-pea-you) is the central processing unit of the computer. A computer's CPU handles all instructions it receives from hardware and software running on the computer.
Tip: The CPU is often referred to as the brain of the computer. However, it is more appropriate to refer to software as the brain and the CPU as a very efficient calculator. A CPU is really good with numbers, but if it wasn't for the software it wouldn't know how to do anything else.
Note: Many new computer users may improperly call their computer and sometimes their monitor the CPU. When referring to your computer or monitor, it is proper to refer to them as either the "computer" or "monitor" and not a CPU. The CPU is a chip inside the computer.
CPU overview
What does a CPU do?
CPU history
Components of the CPU
Types of CPUs
How fast does a CPU transfer data?
Could a GPU be used in place of a CPU?
Could a computer work without a CPU?
Related CPU pages.
CPU help and support.
CPU overview
The picture below is an example of what the top and bottom of an Intel Pentium processor may look. The processor is placed and secured into a compatible CPU socket found on the motherboard. Processors produce heat, so they are covered with a heat sink to keep them cool and running smoothly.