Processor - The central processing unit

1. The central processing unit, or CPU, is that part of a computer which executes software program instructions.
2. The microprocessor often plugs into the motherboard using one of many different types of sockets.
3. The central processing unit carries out each instruction of the program in sequence, to perform the basic arithmetical, logical, and input/output operations of the system
4. The IC has allowed increasingly complex CPUs to be designed and manufactured to tolerances on the order of nanometers.
5. IBM PC compatible computers use an x86-compatible processor, usually made by Intel, AMD, VIA Technologies or Transmeta.
6. Apple Macintosh computers were initially built with the Motorola 680x0 family of processors, then switched to the PowerPC series
7. In older computers   circuitry was formerly on several printed circuit boards, but in PCs is a single integrated circuit
8. CPUs for a particular application has largely given way to the development of mass-produced processors that are made for one or many purposes.
9. CPUs have increased the presence of these digital devices in modern life far beyond the limited application of dedicated computing machines.