An integrated circuit can perform programmed instructions.

Functionally, a microprocessor is the part of a computer known as the CPU.

Information received is processed by the ALU the arithmetic logic unit.

It is then passed through the control unit and a register array.

The register array is a small amount of instantly available memory, critical for high performance.

Another notable difference is that while a microcontroller has its onboard memory, a microprocessor does not.

Memory needs to be connected externally.

In most cases, that is in the form of a small amount of RAM and some flash memory.

Unlike microcontrollers, microprocessors can run operating systems like Linux or Windows.

Another pronounced difference is the cost.

Microcontrollers are cheap to make and cheap to buy, available for a few dollars apiece.

A microprocessor can be one of the most expensive parts of a computer.

They can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the case of an AMD Threadripper.

The History of Microprocessors

The first proper microprocessor, the Intel 4004, was invented in 1971.

The first generation of microprocessors ended in 1972 these processors had a clock speed of 740 kHz.

It couldnt do much even most arithmetic calculations were outside its scope.

The second generation involved the first 8-bit microprocessors up from 4-bit.

This started just six months after the release of the 4004 with the release of the Intel 8008.

While groundbreaking at the time, they were quickly superseded in a rapidly advancing field.

The third and fourth generations were released in the late 70s and early 80s.

They were the first that could do more than simple arithmetic.

Particularly the fourth generation, the first 32-bit processors, were popular choices for CPUs in computers.

This generation includes the first Pentium processor a famous name in the processor market.

Modern 64-bit processors are overwhelmingly better and faster than older models of the same generation.

There is not yet the 6th generation of microprocessors using 128-bit logic.

Doing so comes with an increased power draw and heat output, resulting in a lower clock speed.

Conclusion

A microprocessor is a single-chip, general-purpose processor.

Microprocessors are generally found in computers and other computing devices.

Some devices, such as mobile devices, may use more complex processors called SoCs or Systems on Chip.

These offer extra specialized processing capability on the same single chip as the general-purpose processor.

Current microprocessors are 64-bit with no sign of a shift to 128-bit processors.