A microprocessor is a digital electronic device designed to use millions of transistors as integrated circuits (ICs). It also acts as the Central Processing Unit (CPU) of the computer. The invention of integrated circuits paved the way for the development of microprocessors. Prior to the existence of microprocessors, CPUs were made by combining individual electronic components or by small-scale integrated circuits. The first microprocessor was made in 1970. It was then used to calculate Binary Coded Decimals (BCD) in electronic calculators. Later 4 and 8-bit microprocessors were used in terminals, printers, and automation devices.
There are mainly two major microprocessor manufacturing companies in the world – Intel and AMD. Out of these, Intel company’s processors are used more. Each company gives different code names to the processor according to its technology and its capability, Intel company’s major processors, are Pentium-1, Pentium-2, Pentium-3, Pentium-4, Celeron, Core to Duo, etc. Similarly, AMD The major processors of the company are K-5, K-6, Athlon, etc.
