CPU Performance Factors Flashcards

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What does CPU clock speed measure?

How many cycles the CPU runs each second. It is measured in hertz (Hz); 1 GHz is one billion cycles per second.

How does a higher clock speed affect performance?

It lets the CPU do more cycles each second. This can run more instructions but uses more power and makes more heat.

What is a CPU core?

One processing unit inside the CPU. Each core can run its own fetch-decode-execute cycle.

How do more CPU cores affect performance?

They can run several tasks or parts of a task at the same time. Speed gains depend on software that can use many cores.

Why might more cores not always make a computer run faster?

Some programs use only one core. Splitting tasks can add extra work, so gains are limited.

What is cache memory?

Very fast memory inside or close to the CPU. It stores data and instructions the CPU will need soon.

How does a larger cache size improve performance?

It increases the chance of a cache hit. The CPU waits less for slow RAM, so programs run faster.

What are L1, L2, and L3 cache?

Levels of cache with different speeds and sizes. L1 is the smallest and fastest; L3 is the largest and slowest.

What is a cache hit and a cache miss?

A hit is when needed data is found in cache, so it is very fast. A miss is when it is not in cache, so it must be fetched from RAM.

What is overclocking and one risk of it?

Running a CPU at a higher clock speed than its rated speed. It can overheat or crash if cooling is poor.

What happens when there is a cache miss?

The CPU cannot find the data in cache. It fetches it from RAM, waits, and then stores a copy in cache.

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