CPU

A CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside the system. It's often referred to as the "brain" of the computer because it handles all the instructions that are sent to it, whether they come from software applications or hardware components.

The CPU processes data by performing basic arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output operations specified by the instructions in the programs. It consists of several key parts:

1. Control Unit (CU): Directs the operation of the processor. It tells the computer's memory, arithmetic/logic unit, and input/output devices how to respond to the instructions that have been sent to it.
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs all arithmetic and logical operations, such as addition, subtraction, comparison, and other calculations.
3. Registers: Small, fast storage locations within the CPU used to quickly store and retrieve data and instructions that are being processed.

The CPU follows a cycle known as the fetch-decode-execute cycle:

• Fetch: It retrieves instructions from memory.
• Decode: It interprets the instructions.
• Execute: It carries out the instructions.

This continuous process allows the CPU to execute the software and handle tasks in a computer. CPUs come in various models and architectures, such as Intel and AMD for personal computers, and are designed for different levels of performance and efficiency.

RAM

RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of computer memory that temporarily stores data that the CPU uses while a computer is running. It's called "random access" because the CPU can access any part of the memory directly and in any order, rather than sequentially.

RAM is used to store the data and instructions that are actively being used or processed by the system, such as running programs, open files, and background processes. When you open an application or file, it gets loaded from your computer's permanent storage (like a hard drive or SSD) into RAM, allowing the CPU to quickly access and manipulate it.

Key Characteristics of RAM:

1. Volatile Memory: RAM is temporary storage, meaning it loses all stored data when the computer is powered off. Unlike permanent storage (like a hard drive), it doesn't retain information once the system is turned off.
2. Fast Access: RAM is much faster than other forms of storage (like hard drives or SSDs). The CPU can retrieve data from RAM very quickly, which is why systems with more RAM can handle more applications at once or perform faster in general.
3. Capacity: The more RAM a computer has, the more data it can store for quick access. For example, having more RAM allows you to run more applications simultaneously without slowing down the computer.

Common RAM Sizes: