The microprocessor is a uniquely small, yet extremely powerful processing unit located inside of the Central Processing Unit, better known as the CPU. The microprocessor and CPU can be usedinterchangeably. The CPU is known for its ability to help with a variety of different functions, while a microprocessor is tasked with providing exceptional help to one given task. This component consists of a single integrated circuit. It can be used to perform various arithmetical functions It is often extremely notable in the field of computer science, precisely in data processing and analytics. It is often referred to as the “brain” of the computer, as it can perform logical operations, provide memory storage, and help to regulate the computer system. Throughout history, the microprocessor has remained of importance to the field. PCSite Medium, refers to microprocessors’ ability to enable “devices to communicate, collect data,and perform complex tasks, bringing convenience and efficiency into our everyday lives.” (PcSite) Overtime, the microprocessor has undoubtedly proven the value it brings to the field of computer science and engineering, being further developed into the mechanism cherished today.

Originating in November 1971, Marcain “Ted” Hoff created the first microprocessor, referred toas the Intel 4004. The original intent of the innovation was not to build a microprocessor but to buildchips for multiple calculators. It did come as a surprise to Hoff, as the invention was pursued. Firstly, Hoffdiscovered it was efficient and more general purpose for a larger range of applications than intended. InApril of 1970, Dr. Federico Fraggin assisted in developing the chip circuit design and layout,transforming it into a physical transistor. Through this, the Intel 4004, or the first microprocessor was born. The original microprocessor, was of ⅛ inch in width by ⅙ inch long and consisted of 2,300 MOS(metal oxide semiconductors) transistors. At the time of its making, it was priced at USD 60, which is equivalent to approximately $450 in the present day. This microprocessor was just one version, in a long process of revisions and updates of the microprocessor we recognize today.

The microprocessor had a long journey, through various versions and changes. The most notable company to contribute to the development of the microprocessor is Intel. Intel is the pioneer and original company for the microprocessor. The original microprocessor, Intel 4004, could run at a speed of 108KHz. It contained 4 bits, being able to represent numbers from -8 to +7. With the range being particularly small, it was unhelpful in arithmetic calculations. Soon after, Intel 8008, was introduced, an 8-bitmicroprocessor. Quick to follow, was the Intel 8080, a 8-bit microprocessor. This allowed for a wider range in values, from -128 to +127, meaning it was applicable for controlling applications. The third generation of microprocessors to be released was Intel 8086, a 16-bit microprocessor; it represented numbers in a much larger range, from -32,768 to +32,767. This introduced the first microprocessor to allow for the performance of arithmetic calculations. Motorola and Zilog also developed their 16-bitmicroprocessors. The 32-bit microprocessor was introduced in the late 80s, Intel 80836, with the ability torange numbers ±2 x 10^9. With such a large range, this processor quickly became popular in the CPU.Relatively after, in the 90s, Intel had released 80596, called the Pentium processor. It worked exceptionally well in performing arithmetics and following directions. The Pentium 4, released in the year2000 has a clock frequency of 1.5GHz, with 42M transmitters at a rate of 1500 MIPS. This brings us tothe present day, with our 64-bit microprocessors, which tend to be priced from $250 to $300. The latest version of the microprocessor has shown us the revolution it brings. From “automation of boring and dangerous manual labor, advances in medical technology and weather forecasting, and applications of computing technology to aid the disabled” (Markoff) It has forever changed how everything works. Since the 1970s, microprocessors have proven to be an addition to our technologically advanced world, and remain.

Over time, through its various versions and advancements, the microprocessor has proven time and time again its contribution to the technological fields. These devices pose as the brain behind moderntechnology. It is engraved into every piece of technology imaginable; laptops, smartphones, computers,smart devices, etc. The microprocessor can execute given instructions. Modern-day microprocessors cancompute trillions of operations by the second. (Bishvaa G.S) In conclusion, microprocessors have only shown growth in this technically advanced world, and as time passes, there will only be more growth to show from microprocessors.