Lenovo PC 300GL Understanding Your Personal Computer 6267, 6277, 6287 - Page 9
Microprocessors and Memory, Microprocessors
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Chapter 1. Microprocessors and Memory The microprocessor-and-memory subsystem consists of components on the system board that perform logical operations and calculations, control memory, and manage data-transfer operations. The devices and features that make up the microprocessor-and-memory subsystem are: Microprocessors and buses Memory and control logic Microprocessors The microprocessor controls most of the activity in your computer. Almost all information passes through it, whether it is a keyboard stroke, data from a disk drive, or information from a communication network. The microprocessor reads, changes, processes, and reroutes information as needed. Your computer comes with an Intel™ microprocessor that has a 64-bit internal data path and integrated L2 cache. In addition, the microprocessor incorporates Intel MMX™ technology. MMX technology boosts the performance of the microprocessor in processing graphic, video, and audio data, thereby enhancing the performance of multimedia and communications software. For information about the type and speed of the microprocessor in your computer, view the System Summary screen displayed by the Configuration/Setup Utility Program. Another key feature of the microprocessor is that it includes system management mode (SMM), which enables the microprocessor to control power used by peripheral devices and other components. This makes processing more energy efficient and allows the system to run cooler. Microprocessor Speed The microprocessor operating speed is referred to as clock speed and is measured in megahertz (MHz)1. The design of the microprocessor determines the maximum clock speed at which it can operate. A quartz crystal on the system board generates a pulse to the microprocessor, causing the microprocessor to operate at a specific speed. A clock cycle is the time that the microprocessor takes to perform instructions at a given clock speed. Clock cycles are measured in nanoseconds (ns). 1 MHz only denotes internal clock speed of the microprocessor, not application performance; many factors affect application performance. © Copyright IBM Corp. 1998 1