Difference between a processor,chip,chipset and core?

Question

whats the definition for each of them and how are they linked to each other

Answer 1

Well, it roughly goes like this:

Old definition: core = processor = chip

However, the latest dual-core and quad-core processors with multiple cores within each chip package changed that. Adding to the confusion is Intel, who decided to name their latest CPUs "Core" as well (rather than continuing the "Pentium" names). Latest Intel CPU is the Core 2 Duo.

A processor is basically a single package of CPU that you plug into your mainboard. It used to be that to get two CPUs, you have to have 2 CPU sockets. Not any more with dual-core processors.

A chip usually refers to a physical package of a CPU, though generically it could refer to ANY sort of a "chip" that contains microcircuitry.

A chipset is basically the rest of the chips on the mainboard, other than special purpose chips and memory stuff. That would include memory controller (if the CPU doesn't do that as well), bus controller, peripherals, IDE/SATA controller, USB controller, LAN, sound, video, and so on. Usually divided into two chips, known as Northbridge and Southbridge. Mainboard makers can choose Northbridge to match the CPU/memory and Southbridge to match the amount of peripherals to include.

Answer 2

processor is your main cpu that does the "math/processing" or the main work. This is where the main speed of you system comes from."amd/intel main processors"

chipset it the chip that is on the side that talks to the processor(cpu) deals with memory harddrives in/out sound ect. This can effect your computers speed but one a much smaller percent 1-5%ish. you deal with the "chipset" when you go to buy one brand of mainboard to another "ecs,intel.sis" ect.

The core is the "inside guts" of any chip but most the time they're talking about the cpu.
When they say "dual core" they main they have "two processor" sitting next to each other. So in theory doubles your speed.(most the time doesn't)

Answer 3

ALL Integrated Circuits are termed "Chips". Processors are one type of Integrated Circuit, thus they are chips. The integrated circuits that support the processor on the motherboard are also chips, and usually matched to each other, thus they become "Chip Sets". A core is a microprocessor, originally allotted it's own chip, but lately combined with other microprocessors on a multicore chip to become a multi core processor. Pringles are also chips, as are English French Fries (Fish and Chips, anyone?). Then there is my buddy Chip, but you get the idea, no?