What is a CPU?

A CPU is the core electronic circuitry component of a computer program that allows it to implement
instructions. CPUs perform logic, control, arithmetic, input and output operations specified by its
programming to perform basic tasks. They're found in most electronic devices, including laptop
computers, smartphones, some cameras, thermostats and any other type of device that requires input and
output programming operations.

What are the elements of a CPU?

There are several essential elements of a CPU that allow it to function and execute tasks, including the
following six main components:

 Control unit: This unit collects, interprets and executes instructions. It transports types of data
through the system and controls computer hardware by controlling signals.
 Arithmetic logic unit (ALU): This unit executes basic arithmetic and logic operations, as
commanded. It completes any calculations and decisions requested and functions as a data
doorway between primary and secondary storage.
 Register: This unit consists of high-speed memory pieces with various purposes for storing small
amounts of data required in processing. Registers typically hold information regarding calculation
results, the instruction it's currently accomplishing and the next instruction to follow.
 Cache: This unit is a small piece of random access memory, or RAM, that's found in the
processor. It stores data, instructions or other information that the process likely re-uses in the
future to save time and memory.
 Buses: Buses are high-speed connections within the processor that sends data and control signals
from the processor to other components of the computer and vice versa. Typically, three types of
buses, namely an address bus, control bus and data bus, are used in a CPU.
 Clock: This unit coordinates the computer's components to send out electrical pulses to
synchronize them. The speed at which the clock functions and sends out pulses determines how
many instructions can function at any point in time.

Key functions of a CPU

The main purpose of a CPU is to accomplish requested tasks on an electronic device. Within the unit,
CPUs have several key functions that make them essential to any computer, including:

Collect

A CPU is responsible for finding instructions to follow, as requested by the program user. Each individual
instruction is stored according to its own address, and the CPU locates the specific address number within
the program and collects it. The CPU then tracks the instructions for what to do next.

Translate and decode

Once the CPU finds the specific instruction address, it can interpret or decode these instructions. The
instructions found in a CPU require translation into assembly instructions, which are a series of
mnemonic processor instructions. These instructions then require translation into binary instructions.
Once the translations finish, the CPU can understand the instructions for it to follow. The process is called
decoding.
ImplementAfter translating and decoding instructions, the CPU can finally execute instructions. It can
transport data from one memory location to another memory location, transport itself to an entirely
different instruction address or complete calculations through its arithmetic logic unit.
Store

Sometimes the processed data also needs storage. A CPU can allow the storage of this data for reference
or use at a later time. A CPU must give feedback after execution of an instruction, and it records its
outputs to one of its memory components.

What is Main Memory in a Computer?

The main memory in a computer is called Random Access Memory. It is also known as RAM. This is the
part of the computer that stores operating system software, software applications and other information
for the central processing unit (CPU) to have fast and direct access when needed to perform tasks. It is
called "random access" because the CPU can go directly to any section of main memory, and does not
have go about the process in a sequential order.

RAM is one of the faster types of memory, and has the capacity to allow data to be read and written.
When the computer is shut down, all of the content held in RAM is purged. Main memory is available in
two types: Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and Static Random Access Memory (SRAM).

1. Static RAM: SRAM stands for Static Random Access Memory. It is a type of semiconductor which is
widely used in computing devices and microprocessors.

2. Dynamic RAM: DRAM stands for Dynamic Random Access Memory. It is made of Capacitors and
has smaller data life span than Static RAM. 

Random Access Memory (RAM)

 It is also called read-write memory or the main memory or the primary memory.
 The programs and data that the CPU requires during the execution of a program are stored in this
memory.
 It is a volatile memory as the data is lost when the power is turned off.

Characteristics of Secondary Storage Devices

These are some characteristics of secondary memory, which distinguish it from primary memory, such as:

 It is non-volatile, which means it retains data when power is switched off

 It allows for the storage of data ranging from a few megabytes to petabytes.
 It is cheaper as compared to primary memory.
 Secondary storage devices like CDs and flash drives can transfer the data from one device to
another.

Types of Secondary Storage Device

Here are the two types of secondary storage devices, i.e., fixed storage and removable storage.
1. Fixed Storage

Fixed storage is an internal media device used by a computer system to store data. Usually, these are
referred to as the fixed disk drives or Hard Drives.

Fixed storage devices are not fixed. These can be removed from the system for repairing work,
maintenance purposes, and also for an upgrade, etc. But in general, this can not be done without a proper
toolkit to open up the computer system to provide physical access, which needs to be done by an
engineer.

Technically, almost all data, i.e. being processed on a computer system, is stored on some built-in fixed
storage device. We have the following types of fixed storage:

 Internal flash memory (rare)

 SSD (solid-state disk) units
 Hard disk drives (HDD)

2. Removable Storage

Removable storage is an external media device that is used by a computer system to store data. Usually,
these are referred to as the Removable Disks drives or the External Drives. Removable storage is any
storage device that can be removed from a computer system while the system is running. Examples of
external devices include CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray disk drives, and diskettes and USB drives. Removable
storage makes it easier for a user to transfer data from one computer system to another.

The main benefit of removable disks in storage factors is that they can provide the fast data transfer rates
associated with storage area networks (SANs). We have the following types of Removable Storage:

 Optical discs (CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs)

 Memory cards
 Floppy disks
 Magnetic tapes
 Disk packs
 Paper storage (punched tapes, punched cards)