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Three factors that affect the performance of a CPU are: - clock speed - number of processor cores - cache size - AQA - GCSE Computer Science - Question 10 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 10
Three factors that affect the performance of a CPU are: - clock speed - number of processor cores - cache size. Explain how each of these factors affects CPU perfo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Three factors that affect the performance of a CPU are: - clock speed - number of processor cores - cache size - AQA - GCSE Computer Science - Question 10 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Clock speed
Answer
Clock speed is measured in hertz (Hz) and represents the number of cycles a processor can complete in one second. The higher the clock speed, the more instructions a CPU can handle simultaneously, which enhances performance. When the clock speed increases, more fetch-execute cycles can occur, meaning that the CPU is executing more instructions per second. However, there are limits to this, as overheating may hinder performance due to excessive clock speeds.
Step 2
Number of processor cores
Answer
The number of processor cores indicates how many instructions can be executed at the same time. A CPU with multiple cores can handle multiple threads simultaneously, increasing overall efficiency and performance. Each core can work on its own instruction, allowing for parallel processing, which is particularly beneficial for tasks like video rendering or running applications that are designed to take advantage of multi-threading.
Step 3
Cache size
Answer
Cache size refers to the amount of memory available on the CPU chip for quickly accessing frequently used data and instructions. A larger cache size allows the CPU to retrieve data more quickly than pulling it from main memory, improving speed and performance. The closer the data and instructions are stored to the CPU, the faster the CPU can access them, maximizing efficiency during processing.