Difference Between CPU, RAM and GPU

The Central Processing Memory(CPU), Random Access Memory(RAM), and Graphics Processing Unit(GPU) are parts of the computer which have different roles and functions to make the computer system operate effectively without any glitches.

The CPU is made up of the main memory, control unit, and arithmetic logic unit while the RAM is used to store data permanently in computer memory and the GPU is used for graphic and pixel display.

CPU vs RAM vs GPU

The difference between them is that the CPU is optimized for sequential instructions whereas, RAM is optimized for boosting system performance while the GUP is optimized for parallel instructions.

CPU is the main component of a computer system that is responsible for executing instructions while the RAM is the main memory of a computer system, meanwhile, GPU is accountable for performing rapid mathematical calculations.

CPU is a processor that carries out all its roles by drawing all the required information from the RAM whereas, RAM is a short-term memory storage while the GPU has its own RAM to store data on the images it processes.

Comparison Table

What is CPU?

The Central Processing Unit(CPU) is an electric circuit that is responsible for handling the processing of logical and mathematical operations and also performing instructions.

The CPU is also known as a Processor which performs fundamental arithmetic logic, controlling, and input/output functions.

It is often referred to as the heart and brain of all digital systems which means it is accountable for all the singular actions a computer does.

There are three principal components of the CPU which include the Arithmetic-logic unit(ALU) that performs arithmetic and logic operations, Processors registers that supply operands to the ALU and store the results of the ALU, and the Control unit that promote the decoding, execution, fetching of instruction in the computer system.

The CPU has four general duties namely, fetching instructions from memory, Decoding or deciphering the instructions into a structure that the CPU can understand, Executing and carrying out the given instructions, and lastly Storing the result of the execution back to the memory for future use.

What is RAM?

RAM means Random Access Memory which is a temporary type of memory located in the hardware in which data, applications, and programs are stored and kept.

RAM is built into the motherboard and accessed by the central processing unit across the motherboard’s black plane. It is made from numerous types of semiconductors chips that consist of memory cells.

The data present in the RAM is volatile which means that whenever the computer loses power, the data inside will be erased.

There are two types of RAM which are SRAM(Static Random access memory) which stores data using a pair of transistors and DRAM(Dynamic Random access memory) which stores data using a pair of capacitors and transistors.

What is stored inside RAM includes applications, a graphical user interface, and an operating system. It is also known as a highly expensive performing memory component that is used to store data.

What is GPU?

Graphics Processing Unit(GUP) is a specialized electronic circuit that renders graphics and images by conducting prompt mathematical calculations.

It is also used to manipulate and modify memory to speed up the creation of images aimed at the output of a display system. It is used in personal computers, Mobile Phones, workstations, and game consoles.

GPU operates by using a specific technique called Parallel Processing which indicates two or more processors are run simultaneously to handle separate parts of an overall task.

GPU likewise has its RAM to store data on the images it processes through calculation. This calculation is crucial to render graphics and contains more transistors than a CPU.

There are two types of GPUs which are Integrated and Discrete. Integrated GPU comes implanted alongside the GPU while Discrete GPU is mounted on a separate circuit board.

Main Differences Between CPU, RAM and GPU

1. The CPU is the main processing unit in a computer while RAM is a temporary storage unit whereas, GPU is used for manipulating image processing.
2. The performance of the CPU is determined by the number of cores present while the performance of RAM is influenced by the bus speed, processing speed, and memory space whereas, GPU is determined by Intel.
3. The CPU usage when inactive is 0.8 – 10% while the RAM is 50% when idle whereas, GPU is between 0 – 10%.
4. CPU stands for Central Processing unit while RAM stands for Random Access Memory and GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit.
5. CPU interacts with multiple computer components such as RAM and ROM to execute an instruction while the RAM does not interact with any components but the GPU only interacts with the memory and the display unit on the screen.

References

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0743731512000998
2. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=GlRSEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA145&dq=What+is+a+computer+central+processing+unit&ots=bchySWAhuI&sig=fjamEEGHCreuJZbgw__En1w0gRw

Sandeep Bhandari

I am Sandeep Bhandari; I have 20 years of experience in the technology field. I have various technical skills and knowledge in database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about me on my bio page.