Processor Performance

The most central component to the computer is the processor. It is responsible for executing the instructions that are given to the computer. The processor determines the operating systems you can use, the software applications you can run on the computer, and the computer's stability and performance. It is also typically one of the major factors in computer cost. Computers that contain newer and powerful processors are more expensive than computers with less complex processors. This has led processor manufacturers to offer several different lines of processors for the home user, business workstation, and server markets.

single-edge cartridge (SEC)

An advanced packaging scheme that the Intel Pentium II and later models use. The processor is encased in a cartridge module with a single edge that plugs into a 242-pin slot on the system board, much as an expansion card plugs into the system board.

The goal of processor performance is to make applications run faster. Performance is commonly defined by how long it takes for a specific task to be executed. Traditionally, processor performance has been defined as how many instructions can be completed in each clock cycle, or instructions per clock (IPC) times the number of clock cycles. Thus, performance is measured as:

IPC x Frequency

motherboard

The main board in a computer that manages communication between devices internally and externally.