CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71)InfrastructureEasy
A technician is building a desktop computer and needs to install the component that performs the majority of arithmetic and logical calculations for the system. Which component should the technician install into the motherboard's primary socket?
- ACPU
- BRAM module
- CPower supply
- DGPU
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. CPU
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the primary processor that executes instructions and performs calculations for the entire system. The GPU handles graphics rendering, RAM stores active data, and the power supply provides electricity.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. RAM temporarily stores data and instructions but does not process them.
- C. The power supply converts electrical power but performs no calculations.
- D. The GPU specializes in rendering graphics, not general calculations.
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The primary component of a computer that executes instructions and performs arithmetic/logical operations.
- Installed in a dedicated socket on the motherboard
- Speed measured in GHz (clock speed)
- Often paired with a cooling solution due to heat generation
Memory trick: CPU is the 'brain' that thinks for the whole machine.