1.2. Processors

The processor, shown in Figure 1-2, functions as the brain of the server, controlling all activity among the server components. A processor is composed of several components, located on the same integrated circuit and working together.

Figure 1-2. Typical system processor.

The most commonly used processors in the server industry are 32-bit processors. ProLiant servers use 32-bit Intel processors. HP engineers work closely with Intel to ensure compatibility between the processor and the other server components.