The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of a computer system. Some people like to call the case holding the computer the CPU, but this is a misnomer. The CPU is a small computer chip connected to the motherboard. To keep it cool when processing, it has a large fan connected to it. Without the cooling air of the fan, the CPU would burn up fast.

CPUs are very specific and just any CPU can not be inserted into just any motherboard. The motherboard must be able to support the specific CPU. This can make upgrading a CPU a little scary. So typically, if you are going to upgrade a CPU, it is a good idea to make sure the CPU’s and the motherboard are compatible. There are two basic types of CPU’s—socket and slot. Socket CPUs snap directly into the motherboard with a fan directly attached. The slot CPU has a casing which holds the CPU with a fan connected to the casing. The socket type is more popular because it is easier to keep cool.

CPU speeds are rated in Megahertz (Mhz) and Gigahertz (Ghz). One major misconception regarding CPU’s is that the larger the number (the megahertz/gigahertz), the faster the CPU will make their computer run. While this is generally true, there are other factors that affect the overall speed of the CPU.

Front Side Bus ” This regulates the speed of communication between the Ram and the CPU. Onboard Cache ” This is comparable to Ram, except used strictly by the CPU to speed up calculations.

The next time you shop for a CPU, remember to consider the other factors most people don’t generally notice. When buying a CPU, it is important to know how it will be used. Most basic users only need internet and some word processing and basic picture editing. Using Windows XP (since it’s the most common home Operating System right now) 2.0 Ghz should be your minimum. This speed is just right for these basic functions, and should be fast enough to last a while, and most of all, it is inexpensive.

One thing to note here is that the price difference between the 2.0 Ghz and the upper 2.x Ghz CPU’s (like 2.6 or 2.9) is so slight that you might be better off to get the one slightly higher to last longer over time. It is not necessary to buy the fastest CPU available. The fastest CPU will be considerable more expensive and not really needed for the vast majority of computer users.