This document provides information about key computer components, specifically focusing on the processor, RAM, and hard drive. It explains that the processor, or CPU, is the central component that processes instructions to run the computer. The document discusses the basic functions and elements of a processor, including the arithmetic logic unit, registers, and cache memory. It also notes that most modern processors are multi-core to improve performance. The two main competitors in the processor market are Intel and AMD.

1. COMPUTER SPECIFICATIONS
is a list of the key components that make up the
computer. It is provided by retailers to help buyers
decide which PC, and which combination of features,
they need. When buying a PC you start by deciding what
you want your PC to do. This tells the specification you
actually need.

2. When reviewing a computer specification, the
most important component to take are the
processor, the size of RAM and the size of the
hard drive as these are central to the overall
capability of the system. If it is planned to use
specialized programs for students with special
needs, it is advisable to purchase a suitable
specification computer to meet the system
requirements for these programs.

3. The 3 most important component to take.
PROCESSOR
RAM
HDD

4. The CPU/Processor
A processor is the logic circuitry that responds
to and processes the basic instructions that
drive a computer.
The four primary functions of a processor are
1. Fetch
2. Decode
3. Execute
4. Writeback

5. The basic elements of a processor
The arithmetic logic unit (ALU), which carries out arithmetic and
logic operations on the operands in instructions.
The floating point unit (FPU), also known as a math coprocessor
or numeric coprocessor, a specialized coprocessor that
manipulates numbers more quickly than the basic
microprocessor circuitry can.
Registers, which hold instructions and other data. Registers
supply operands to the ALU and store the results of operations.
L1 and L2 cache memory. Their inclusion in the CPU saves time
compared to having to get data from random access memory
(RAM).

6. Most processors today are multi-core, which
means that the IC contains two or
more processors for enhanced performance,
reduced power consumption and more
efficient simultaneous processing of multiple
tasks. Multi-core set-ups are similar to having
multiple, separate processors installed in the
same computer, but because the processors
are actually plugged into the same socket,
the connection between them is faster.

7. The term processor is used interchangeably
with the term central processing unit (CPU),
although strictly speaking, the CPU is not the
only processor in a computer. The GPU
(graphics processing unit) is the most notable
example but the hard drive and other devices
within a computer also perform some
processing independently. Nevertheless, the
term processor is generally understood to
mean the CPU.

8. The processor in a personal computer or
embedded in small devices is often called
a microprocessor. That term simply means
that the processor's elements are contained
on a single integrated circuitry (IC) chip.
The two main competitors in the processor
market are Intel and AMD.

9. INTEL
 is the world’s largest manufacturer of PC microprocessors and the holder
of the x86processor architecture patent.
AMD (ADVANCED MICRO DEVICES)
AMD is the second largest maker of personal computer microprocessors after Intel.
They also make flash memory, integrated circuits for networking devices, and
programmable logic devices. AMD reports that it has sold over 100 million x86
(Windows-compatible) microprocessors. Its Athlon (formerly called the "K7")
microprocessor, delivered in mid-1999, was the the first to support a 200 MHz bus.
In March, 2000, AMD announced the first 1 gigahertz PC microprocessor in a new
version of the Athlon.