Ch 2: CPU Speed and Performance Flashcards
(9 cards)
1
Q
What does a CPU’s advertised speed indicate?
A
the maximum it can operate without overheating or malfunctioning
2
Q
Which data unit is a CPU’s speed measured in?
A
gigahertz
3
Q
How many cycles per second is one hertz?
A
one cycle per second
4
Q
How many hertz are in one gigahertz?
A
one billion hertz
5
Q
What is a system clock and what is its purpose?
A
a chip on the motherboard that determines the actual speed of the CPU
synchronizes the timing of all operations on the motherboard
6
Q
At what speed does the CPU function compared to other components?
A
Much faster
7
Q
What factors impact a CPU’s performance?
A
- The number of transistors
- CPU’s word size
8
Q
What is a word?
A
a group of bits that a computer can use as a unit
9
Q
What are key advances in CPU design and manufacturing?
A
- Smaller and closer circuits, which means more transistors can fit on the same chip size and the CPU will generate less heat data
- Instructions reach their destinations faster
- Manufacturing now uses better materials such as copper instead of aluminum
