ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Superscalar

Have you ever seen a person who can do multiple things at the same time like walking and talking or eating and reading a book? That is what experts call 'multitasking'. Similar to experts, computers can also multitask, and the technology that allows them to do that is called 'superscalar'.

Superscalar computers can perform multiple tasks at the same time which makes them faster and more efficient. Instead of doing one task at a time, they understand multiple tasks that can be executed simultaneously, just like how you can both chew gum and walk.

The computer has a built-in mechanic that enables it to keep track of all the tasks it needs to do, and it knows the order in which those tasks should be done. It is like making a to-do list and following that list to complete all the tasks.

Superscalar technology uses a technique called 'pipelining', which breaks down instructions into smaller pieces and executes them at the same time. Think of it like a factory assembly line where each worker is responsible for a specific job. The worker completes their task and then passes the product to the next worker who does their job. This process is repeated until the finished product is made.

Finally, superscalar computers work better on some tasks than others. Just as you may be good at reading but find math tough, superscalar computers can be better or worse at different types of tasks.