dual core processorsw

[eggzs]

what is the difference between a dual core processor and a normal processor, I know it has 2 "cores" but what does that mean? Does it mean that for instance if your processor is 2.6ghz, it will double to 5.2ghz?

[Nadril]

It doesn't really work that way, no.

 

 

 

The best way to describe it is that it is literally like having two processors both working at that speed. So, for example a 2.6ghz dual core is like having two 2.6ghz processors.

 

 

 

 

 

The upside to this, of course, is a few things. First of all it gives you greater multi tasking use -- since both cores can help work with different programs. Also pretty much any new game will take advantage of both cores, using them for different processes usually. You might have one core work on enemy AI and such while another works on something different, it varies though.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What you just need to know though really is that a 2.6ghz dual core processor would be much faster than any normal 2.6ghz processor, and even something like a 4ghz single core processor. One of the reasons is just that pretty much all new processors are at least dual core (or quad core) so they have better hardware. Processors speed isn't just based off of their flat out "ghz" speed but many other variables as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hope that helps, I think I got the idea right. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

[Cruiser]

The main point definitely is a dual core at 2.6ghz is not 5.2ghz. It simply does not work like that. The frequency doesn't magically double when you add a second core. They both run at the same frequency, you now just have 2 processors in one chip instead of just one processor in one chip.

 

 

 

If you're looking at buying a new machine, just forget buying a single core machine. Most of the low end dual core chips will keep up with or out perform even the high end single core processors. When comparing processors you'll need to stay within the same type as well. Compare dual core to dual core, quad core to quad core, ect. Jumping between types, like comparing dual core to single core, is hard to do without running physical tests and recording the performance of each because of all the different factors involved.

 

 

 

This wiki page would be a good read if you can get through some of the heavy wording.

[Nadril]

If you're looking at buying a new machine, just forget buying a single core machine. Most of the low end dual core chips will keep up with or out perform even the high end single core processors. When comparing processors you'll need to stay within the same type as well. Compare dual core to dual core, quad core to quad core, ect. Jumping between types, like comparing dual core to single core, is hard to do without running physical tests and recording the performance of each because of all the different factors involved.

 

 

 

Agreed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also if you're in the market for one the E6600's (IIRC) are great. Only $150 or so and its a 1.8ghz Dual core processor, and you can really overclock it well.

[eggzs]

oh, i get it now thanks alot, now which dual core is better?

 

AMD 5200+ or Intel E4600

[Cruiser]

The E4600 will most likely out perform the Athlon X2 if you don't overclock either of them. That's usually the case for the current generate of processors. The Intel offering will outperform the AMD offering of the same grade, but the AMD chip will be cheaper. It really depends on how much you're willing to spend and what the use is going to be. If you're just building an all around machine for web browsing, school and light gaming the cheaper Athlon will be plenty but if you're looking to build an all out, top of the line gaming machine, the high end Core Duos will be the chips to buy.

[Bloodredsword]

With duel processors, you can basically do a bunch of stuff at the same time.(or run 2 copies of WoW...(nadril :P ;))

 

 

 

Its kinda scary how much it improved my desktop :shock: