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A central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of your computer. Like a human brain, a CPU receives instructions from another part of the computer (the memory), processes the instructions, and sends the results to be executed. Keep reading for an understanding of CPUs -- their parts, their latest features, their history, and their manufacturers.
If you open your computer or laptop and examine the motherboard -- the sheet of electronics that relays signals throughout your computer -- you'll see a square chip, usually gold and generally measuring about 1 inch by 1 inch. That's the central processing unit, otherwise known as the brain of your computer.
Sounds simple, right? But a CPU isn't just a single chip that performs magic. It's a complicated circuit that includes five major components:
Intel's lead, which it's maintained for more than two decades, is based on a commitment to research and development (R&D), a strong brand, partnerships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and a diverse customer base.
The original CPUs were vacuum tubes, built into early, room-size computers that generated a lot of heat but not a great deal of information. Since then, they've shrunk to the point where they’'e known as microprocessors. Yet even within a tiny square inch of electronic wafer, significant technological advances have been made, including:
People who believe that developments such as the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) will continue to boost demand for central processing units have several options to consider when looking for potential CPU-related investments. The market for CPUs is expected to climb from $50.6 billion to $100.2 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5%.
Two companies -- Intel and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD -0.79%) – currently dominate the field, trailed by Apple (AAPL +0.33%), Qualcomm (QCOM -0.86%), ARM Holdings (ARM -2.41%), and MediaTek (TWSE:2454). Intel is clearly the heavyweight of the bunch, holding almost 64% of the market at the end of the second quarter in 2024; AMD held about one-third.
