How 12-Way Multitask Processing Works
When multiple computer programs run at the same time or in parallel, it is referred to as multitasking in computer terminology. When a computer processor is capable of multitasking, it allows the computer processes to share computer resources in order to provide more efficient execution of multiple programs. The newest version of the Intel core i7 computer processor is capable of 12-way multitasking for the processors released starting in the calendar year 2010.
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What You Need for 12-Way Multitasking
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Intel's 2010 Core i7 processor is the only CPU available on the commercial market capable of 12-way multitasking, as of 2010. The Core i7 is capable of not only 12-way multitasking, but also 8-way and 4-way depending on personal preference. From the factory, the newest i7 processors are pre-configured to support 12-way multitasking without any configuration actions required by the end user.
Benefits of 12-Way Multitasking
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12-Way multitasking primarily benefits the power computer user who conducts batch video editing and other concurrent computer processes at the same time. It optimizes the overall CPU, or central processing unit, usage to minimize any visual delays in program execution by the end user while increasing processor speed more than 133 MHz in certain test cases. For the average computer user, there will not be an observable difference in processor or computer speed unless they run programs, such as 3D games or videos, that use a significant amount of computer resources.
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Single Core CPUs
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Single core CPUs still dominate the commercial market, in terms of the number of Intel and AMD computer processors sold. They are not, however, capable of 12-way multitasking and suffer performance delays when conducting batch video editing or other complex processes that, in effect, force individual operations to wait in line to squeeze through the same processing space.
Multi-core Computer Processors
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Multi-core processors are the first computers capable of true parallel processing. Multiple core computer processors appear as though they are multiple CPUs to the computer's operating system, which allows it to schedule computer program tasks to be executed at the same time. Although AMD produces multiple core computer processors, they do not use the Intel Hyper-Threading technology that is required to use the 12-Way multitasking.
This is because, in addition to running a different program thread simultaneously through each of the multiple cores, or processing units, that are contained in a multi-core CPU, Hyper-Threading allows each core to process multiple threads at the same time, thus significantly increasing the system's multitasking capabilities.
12-Way Multitasking Use
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12-Way multitasking is primarily beneficial to computer users who conduct a significant amount of mathematical simulation, play 3D video games, or who conduct a significant amount of video editing in the home. If you buy an Intel Core i7 computer processor, it will come with 12-way Multitasking enabled. The only way that you can turn 12-Way multitasking off is to do so through the computer's BIOS.
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