Types of Dual Core Processors
Several types of desktop dual-core processors are on the market today. You can distinguish each processor by the type of technology used to design the chip. A dual-core design allows your computer to use two independent processors to multitask in parallel at the same time. Dual-core processors are better than single-core processors because they are faster, handle power management more efficiently and run at lower clock speeds.
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History
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In 2005, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and Intel introduced their desktop dual-core processors to consumers. Both manufacturers began designing dual-core processors because they found it difficult and expensive to increase the clock frequency in processors without the chips overheating. They began developing new technology to increase the size of the internal L2 cache. The L2 cache is integrated with the processor chip and normally runs faster than the speed of the motherboard. When your computer needs data, it searches for information stored in the memory caches on the processor.
Function
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Dual-core processors are designed to handle several multithreaded programs simultaneously without any wait or lag time. For instance, if you're working on a video-editing program and want to run another application, dual-core technology allows the two processors to divide the workload. Computer users can optimize a dual-core processor's multitasking power by running an operating system and software applications that support thread-level parallelism.
Features
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Pentium Extreme Edition and Pentium D were the first dual-core processors made by Intel. Both processors feature Intel's hyperthreading technology, which allows you to run several applications at the same time. Opteron and Athlon 64 X2 were the first dual-core processors made by AMD. The architecture of both processors is somewhat different than Intel's dual-core designs. For example, the Athlon 64 X2 processor is based on AMD64 technology. The dual-core processor is designed to use the same infrastructure as the company's single-core processors. This means components do not need to be redesigned and you will only need to upgrade your computer's BIOS (basic input/output system) to run the processor.
Benefits
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Dual-core processors are not designed to improve single-task performance, but if you frequently run several applications simultaneously, a dual-core processor is a good investment. The processor can help you get more work done without slowing down your computer system.
Types
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Intel's Core Duo and Core 2 Duo desktop processors were released in 2009 and the processors are perfect for gamers who play high-intensity computer games. The processors run at lower clock speeds and are compatible with a number of chipsets, also known as a group of microchips designed to control or provide support for specific features on a motherboard. AMD has released dual-core versions of its Turion and Athlon processors. The Turion 64-bit dual-core mobile processors have more power-saving features and longer battery life, and they offer larger memory caches. Both dual-core processor families are designed for desktop and laptop computers.
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