Processor vs Microprocessor: Difference and Comparison

Key Takeaways

1. A processor, also known as a central processing unit (CPU), is a fundamental component of a computer system.
2. A microprocessor is an integrated circuit containing the functions of a computer system’s central processing unit (CPU).
3. Processors find applications in various computing systems, including large-scale servers, mainframes, supercomputers, and high-performance computing clusters, while microprocessors are commonly used in consumer electronics and embedded systems.

What is Processor?

A processor serves as the computer’s brain, carrying out various tasks and coordinating the activities of other hardware and software components. Processors are designed to handle multiple operations, including arithmetic and logical calculations, data processing and control flow. They are responsible for executing instructions stored in the computer’s memory, fetching data, performing calculations, and storing results.

The primary function of a processor is to perform instructions sequentially, following the fetch-decode execute cycle. This cycle involves fetching the next instruction from memory, decoding it to determine the operation to be performed, running the process, and then proceeding to the following education. Processors also manage input and output operations, interacting with peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and displays.

Processors are characterized by their clock speed, which indicates the number of instructions they can execute per second. Higher clock speed results in faster processing, although other factors, such as architecture and the number of cores, also play a significant role. 

What is Microprocessor?

Microprocessors are complex electronic devices that perform various arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output operations, executing instructions and manipulating data in a computer system. It comprises millions, or even billions, of transistors that work together to carry out various tasks. These transistors are arranged in complex patterns on a tiny silicon chip, allowing for the execution of instructions per second. 

Microprocessors are designed using semiconductor technology, utilizing many transistors and other electronic components on a single integrated circuit chip. Microprocessors have multiple levels of cache memory to store frequently accessed data and instructions, enabling faster access than the main memory.

Microprocessors have advanced significantly over the years, with each new generation offering higher performance, improved power efficiency, and additional features.

Difference between Processor and Microprocessor

1. A processor is an electronic circuitry component that executes instructions and performs calculations in a computer system. At the same time, a microprocessor is a type of processor designed on a single integrated circuit chip.
2. A processor can refer to a broader range of devices used in mainframe computers or servers, while a microprocessor is a miniaturized processor version.
3. Processors can have different architectures, such as ad x86, ARM, or PowerPC, which determine how the CPU executes instructions and handle data. In contrast, the most common microprocessor architecture includes Intel and AMD.
4. Processors in larger systems, such as servers or computers, have higher performance capabilities. On the other hand, microprocessors are less powerful and are designed to offer a balance between performance and power consumption.
5. Processors find applications in various computing systems, including large-scale servers, mainframes, supercomputers, and high-performance computing clusters, while microprocessors are commonly used in consumer electronics and embedded systems.

Comparison Between Processor and Microprocessor

Parameters of Comparison	Processor	Microprocessor
Definition	An electronic circuitry component that executes instructions and performs calculations	A type of processor that is designed on a single integrated circuit chip
Complexity	This can refer to a broader range of devices used in mainframe computers or servers	A miniaturized version of a processor
Architecture	ad x86, ARM or PowerPC	Intel and AMD
Performance	Higher performance capabilities	Less powerful
Application	Large-scale servers, mainframes, supercomputers and high-performance computer clusters	Consumer electronics and embedded systems

References

1. https://dl.acm.org/doi/abs/10.1145/545214.545217
2. https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=9b4742a9579f0f3c948550777627977ae1a47e62

Last Updated : 14 October, 2023