Scalar processors represent the simplest class of computer processors. A scalar processor processes one data item at a time (typical data items being integers or floating point numbers). In a vector processor, by contrast, a single instruction operates simultaneously on multiple data items. The difference is analogous to the difference between scalar and vector arithmetic.

See also

• Instruction pipeline
• Parallel computing
• Superscalar

Notes

1. The processors in question may be complete central processing units (CPUs) or separate arithmetic-logic units (ALUs). In some cases, a processor may be made up of one CPU and several ALUs, the combination forming a superscalar processor.

Microprocessors | Computer architecture

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