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Glite Dictionary
coprocessor

coprocessor

1 5.2
A small computer chip that works with the main chip to do special jobs
  • noun
  • /ˈkoʊˌproʊsɛsər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : coprocesador
  • The minimum OBSS system requirements are a 386-based computer with a math coprocessor, VGA graphics, 4 MB RAM, and 10 MB of hard disk space.
  • math coprocessor

Examples

  • A math coprocessor is recommended to shorten the time required for the calculation of the tool path parameters.

    Academic text (1992)

  • With its introduction on the IBM G3 Enterprise Server, the SCM became the fastest, smallest, and most secure coprocessor ever developed.

    Academic text (1999)

  • The functions of coprocessors are becoming integrated into the processor.

    Blog text (2)

  • Hardware: IBM-compatible PC; math coprocessor supported.

    Academic text (1994)

  • We then have coprocessors that support IO and AI.

  • Hardware: IBM-compatible PC with a math coprocessor.

    Academic text (1994)

  • Rather than an I/O-attached coprocessor, the SCM is attached directly to the host CPU.

    Academic text (1999)

  • And so we implemented a version of this in a chip that had a microcontroller and a coprocessor for biomedical monitoring.

  • Using a coprocessor can significantly reduce the time needed for complex calculations in your computer.

  • The new laptop features a dedicated coprocessor that enhances graphics performance during gaming.

How Specialized

accelerator
  • Specialized
2 4.6
coprocessor
  • Specialized
1 5.2
uniprocessor
  • Specialized
7.9
central processor
  • Specialized
1 3.7

Surface Forms

coprocessor singular
coprocessors plural

Morphology

coprocessor = processor (transparent) = co + process + or

The word is clearly formed by adding the productive prefix 'co-' (meaning jointly/with) to 'processor', yielding 'a processor that works with another'.

Etymology

The word coprocessor starts with co- meaning 'with' and ends with processor meaning 'one that handles tasks'. So a coprocessor is like a helper brain that works with the main processor to do specific jobs such as graphics, math, or encryption.