Comments
LofiLute t1_iyee7ma wrote
Imagine the processor as the really smart classmate that can quickly do any form of mathematics you throw at it. They don’t know why they are doing the equations. They just get the equations and do them.
The equations and what to do with them are on a piece of paper. On a device, this would be something like ROM (read only memory) or other storage (like an SSD).
If you want to make a toaster, you get a processor, and feed it instructions to make toast.
If you want to make a missile, you get a (possibly the same) processor and give it instructions on how to fly and read GPS data.
ekinnee t1_iyeh967 wrote
Just the same as Apple's macOS ran on Intel chips, just like Windows does. It's just math and logical operations according to the CPU.
woslwe t1_iyell5d wrote
It depends. There are some chips that perform very basic tasks, such as sending regular timing signals, which are required in all kinds of systems. More elaborate chips, such as microcontrollers and microprocessors, can usually be programmed to do many different things.
That doesn't necessarily mean they're easily interchangeable though, since they vary in terms of physical size and shape, voltage requirements, reliability, ability to withstand extreme temperatures, processing speed, etc. So it might take a lot of work to adapt a system to use a different kind of chip, or it might have an impact on its performance or reliability. I would imagine that some military equipment is usually made using very specialized, high-performance electronic components, while some just uses standard civilian components.
Gullible_Progress778 t1_iyet7xf wrote
This is a really good explanation!
jmlinden7 t1_iyeu9ty wrote
Depends on whether or not the ASIC is turing complete. If it isn't, then there are some operations you wouldn't be able to run on it.
bbqroast t1_iyf75rv wrote
Funnily enough the new Macs (M) run on a different chip architecture from regular AMD/Intel chips which is why they can't run certain apps or require an emulation layer.
fixed_grin t1_iyf8t7t wrote
The other thing for this example in particular is that cruise missile technology goes back decades. The Tomahawk was originally built with the finest of (disposable) late 1970s microprocessors. You just don't need a lot of computing power to run "fly this preprogrammed course and explode at this GPS point" or "fly this course and activate your radar after 15 minutes, then fly into a target that looks like X on your radar."
So the idea that a 2010s appliance would have chips powerful enough to run a missile seems plausible.
zgrizz t1_iyeda97 wrote
A microprocessor is a microprocessor. How and what it is interconnected with, and how it is programmed is what matters.
That said, common household products typically use custom chips dedicated to a specific purpose - but many everyday devices can be broken down and used for other purposes.