Read the text an answer the questions after it

A microprocessor incorporates most or all of the functions of a central processing unit (CPU) on a single integrated circuit.

The introduction of the microprocessor in the 1970s significantly affected the design and implementation of CPUs. Since the introduction of the first microprocessor (the Intel 4004) in 1970 and the first widely used microprocessor (the Intel 8080) in 1974, this class of CPUs has almost completely overtaken all other central processing unit implementation methods. Combined with the advent and eventual vast success of the now ubiquitous personal computer, the term "CPU" is now applied almost exclusively to microprocessors.

Previous generations of CPUs were implemented as discrete components and numerous small integrated circuits (ICs) on one or more circuit boards. Microprocessors, on the other hand, are CPUs manufactured on a very small number of ICs; usually just one. The overall smaller CPU size as a result of being implemented on a single die means faster switching time because of physical factors like decreased gate parasitic capacitance. This has allowed synchronous microprocessors to have clock rates ranging from tens of megahertz to several gigahertz. Additionally, as the ability to construct exceedingly small transistors on an IC has increased, the complexity and number of transistors in a single CPU has increased dramatically.

The microprocessor manufacturers look for different ways to improve performance, in order to hold on to the momentum of constant upgrades in the market. One of these ways to improve a computer's performance is to add extra processors.

A multi-core processor is simply a single chip containing more than one microprocessor core, effectively multiplying the potential performance with the number of cores (as long as the operating system and software is designed to take advantage of more than one processor). Some components, such as bus interface and second level cache, may be shared between cores. Because the cores are physically very close they interface at much faster clock rates compared to discrete multiprocessor systems, improving overall system performance.

In 2005, the first personal computer dual-core processors were announced and as of 2007 dual-core processors are widely used in servers, workstations and PCs while quad-core processors are now available for high-end applications in both the home and professional environments.

Sun Microsystems has released the Niagara and Niagara 2 chips, both of which feature an eight-core design. The Niagara 2 supports more threads and operates at 1.6 GHz.

1. What is a microprocessor?

2. When was the first microprocessor introduced?

3. Is it correct to use term “CPU” in relation to microprocessors?

4. How were the first CPUs fabricated?

5. What is the result of smaller CPU size?

6. How can the computer’s performance be improved?

7. Where are multi-core processors used nowadays?

Read the text again and choose the correct answer to complete these

Sentences.

1. A multi-core processor is simply a single chip containing more than one microprocessor core, effectively _______the potential performance with the number of cores.

2. Previous generations of CPUs were implemented as ______ components and numerous small integrated circuits (ICs) on one or more circuit boards.

3. The term "CPU" is now _____almost exclusively to microprocessors.

4. Sun Microsystems has released chips which _____ an eight-core design.

5. The first personal computer dual-core processors were _______in 2005.

4. Complete the sentences below with a proposition from the box.

For from on of

1 The company benefited ___increased investment in R&D.

2 The outlook ___the next year looks very promising.

3 Our strategy focuses ______bringing the customer the best quality for the least money.

4 We are always looking ____ ways to improve our products.

5 We work hard to stay ahead _____ the competition.

6 They bought the company ______$ 21bn last year.