How Does a Computer Encode and Process Information?
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Binary System of Encoding
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Data is input into a computer. The computer encodes the information using binary code (see Resources). The information received by the computer is encoded using 1s and 0s. A 1 means "true," and a 0 means "false." Computers think in base 2, which is the use of two digits to form a numbering system. Once the information is encoded, it is moved to the central processing unit (CPU).
Central Processing Unit
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The CPU is a computer's brain, where all of the information is processed by the computer. The CPU of a typical desktop or laptop computer is housed on a chip called a processor or microprocessor. CPUs come in varying speeds. Faster processors allow a computer to rapidly perform logical calculations and swiftly execute instructions. Slower processors perform the same calculations but at a slower rate. The CPU consists of two components: the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), where logical and arithmetic functions occur; and the control unit (CU), which decodes information from the computer's memory. Once the information is decoded, the computer executes user-given instructions.
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Microprocessors vs. Embedded Processors
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Computers process information with the help of embedded processing units, or microprocessors. The main drawback of embedded processors is that they were created to do one thing well. Once instructions are encoded in an embedded processor, the processor can't be reprogrammed to perform a different task. An example is the function of a TV remote control, which is programmed to turn channels. You can't reprogram it to use as it as a calculator. A microprocessor provides much more versatility. Using a microprocessor, you need only switch software to go from playing a game to typing a term paper.
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