What Is Good About Quad Core Processors?
Quad core processors are the next step in multi-core computer processing. Most consumers, however, do not use the programs that take advantage of this technology.
Other People Are Reading
-
Identification
-
Quad Core Processors put four CPU's on a single computer chip. This means that the system can perform four tasks simultaneously, or dedicate them all to a single task, if the program allows multi-threading.
Benefits
-
Applications that run several types of processes at a time operate faster and more smoothly on a Quad Core than a single or "dual" core processor.
-
Significance
-
As of 2009, quad cores are still not widely adopted. Intel only uses this type of processor in about 5 percent of its desktops.
Pricing
-
Users can get a dual and quad core processor for the same amount of money, but the quad core will typically have a much lower clock speed. The 2.4 gigahertz Core 2 Quad Q6600, for example, sold at $185 in March 2009, the same price as a 3.16 gigahertz Core 2 Duo E8500.
Disadvantages
-
In general, computer owners do not need a quad core processor unless they do 3-D rendering. Most video games will benefit more from a faster dual core processor than a slower quad core, according to Anand Lal Shimpi of Computer Power User.
-
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Raul Gonzalo
