(circuit) Electronic circuit in a computer or calculator that carries out the process of adding two binary numbers. A separate adder is needed for each pair of binary bits to be added. Such circuits are essential components of a computer's arithmetic and logic unit (ALU).
1. A component of the CPU (central processing unit) that adds two numbers sent to it by processing instructions. See also central processing unit.
2. A circuit that sums the amplitudes, or strength, of two input signals. See also full adder, half adder.