Which processor is actually the fastest and how important are Hertz when you select new computer? I will clarify concepts and answer some of the most common questions about processors.
- What is a processor?
Processor, often called the CPU (Central Processing Unit), is the brain of the computer where it accounts for most of the calculations made. There are processors in many types of gadgets, everything from microwave ovens to cars, here we focus however on the ones we have in our computers.
Modern processors can perform billions of calculations every second and they are made up of millions of small transistors mounted on a surface in a few square centimeters.
- What is the difference between a CPU and a GPU?
CPU is not the only circuit in a computer that handles calculations, the graphics card in the computer is also usually a self-processor that only handles graphics calculations, this is sometimes called the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).
Even the sound card may have an advanced dedicated processor.
- What should I choose - AMD or Intel?
Since immemorial time we have AMD and Intel's been on the performance throne and there has always been arguments for both sides. What is the fastest, most power-efficient and most affordable? In the current situation Intel leads in terms of pure performance, while AMD instead focusing on being the affordable option for the budget with a little narrower. And so it has, with few interruptions, been quite a while. Important to know is that when you select the processor, select the platform, thus moderate style and in some cases a common style, so it will be easy to switch to another processor if you would change your mind.
- How much power, the processor?
This has been the development properly forward the last two to three years and even if you select a fast dual core processor it need not absorb very much power. In this context used TDP (Thermal Design Power) as a unit, in practice the maximum effect that the cooling device must support to the CPU so that it does not overheat. The latest and fastest Core 2 Quad models from Intel is about 65-95 watts TDP, while a simpler dual core processor in a new laptop has TDP-values of around 25-35 watts.
Ultra Low Voltage flavors draws no more than 5-6 watts TDP and the latest Atom processor from Intel, a model that will appear in the mini-computers in the year, draws as little as 2.5 watts. Now that defines Intel and AMD TDP-value in different ways so the value, unfortunately, is not comparable across different platforms.
- How many cores do I need?
The difference between a single core and a dual core processor is quite large but it is not as obvious to go up to Quad Core. If you're running heavy applications for audio or video editing, the four cores will be preferred (if your program supports this) but if you're looking for the best gaming performance, it is usually better to put money on a fast dual core processor and a fast graphics card. Few games can use more than two cores in the current situation and usually the graphics card is the weak link in terms of performance.
- How many gigahertz do I need?
A few years ago you could compare hertz rates between different processors and thus get a decent idea of what was the fastest but it is as simple as it no longer. AMD and Intel use different processor architectures and the factors that bus, cache and number of grains to make it properly when you choose. Here it is more important than ever to read the tests and that you select a new and fresh processor so you do not stand with an old platform that you can not upgrade.
- How much the cache?
The cache is built into the processor itself, which means that the data does not need to detour through working memory (RAM) before being processed. This means that when the cache is used calculations are much faster than otherwise. The more cache you have in the processor the faster the work is, but it is also an expensive component that draws up the overall price. This memory is also divided into different levels, L1, L2, etc. The lower the number the closer the actual processor (and faster).
- Will I earn something on overclocking?
Overclocking can be a cheap way to get out a little more performance from your computer while you are charged to the processor more than its actual performance. Make sure you have a big cooler and check that your CPU is overclocking friendly (read in properly before). The rule on overclocking is that drawing up the speed of the system bus, thus increasing the CPU clock frequency, but at the same time, insert the motherboard to the test. Many new motherboards have overclocking features built-in smartly that you can control directly from Windows software.
- Can I change the processor itself?
Before you buy a new processor to your computer, it is important that you have stone eye on the new processor fits in your motherboard. Not only physically but also to the motherboard software (bios) to identify the processor. The actual change is quite simple but you have my thumb in the hand it may be worthwhile to ask someone with experience for help. It can be an expensive business if you slip with the screwdriver when you mount the cooler.
And you are thinking of changing the processor in your laptop then usually just forget. If you are lucky, processor is not soldered but only to disassemble the chassis can be a nightmare and it's not safe to bios support your new CPU and cooler whether it can handle the heat development.
- How important are the bits?
The major advantage of 64-bit processor and 64-bit operating system is that it can use significantly more working memory, is still software support, however, very limited. If you do not need to work with a workstation that will render 3D animations or similar applications, we recommend 32 bits. To take advantage of a 64-bit processor, software must have support for it.
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