How to Compare a Dual Core Processor With HT Technology

Dual Core vs. Hyperthreading

Intel introduced hyper-threading as a solution to the growing problem of "memory delay" in it's processors. Hyper-threading duplicates the registers that hold all the data that the operating system would have to remove from the CPU in order to run a different thread, alleviating or easing the performance hindering issues associated with "memory delay." A dual core processor is a processor which utilizes two independent cores. Functioning as a type of integrated circuit, these cores can each take on the workload of a single processor.

Things You'll Need

• Dual Core Processor Specifications
• Hyper-threading Processor Specifications

Instructions

Processor Comparison

1. Identify the specifications associated with each of the processors you want to compare to one another. Quantify the relevant benchmarks which would meet your needs in a system. These can range from cost and versatility, to power consumption and memory cache.

2. Compare the cost of the processors. Dual core processors have come down in price substantially over time, and now may only be slightly more expensive than its former, the hyper-threading processor. Take note of the operating system and software you intend to use with the processor. The developers in either of these instances need to have written the code to allow for the full use of either hyper-threading or a dual core processor, whatever the case may be. Ensuring the software and/or operating system is able to fully utilize your selected processor is crucial.

3. Make sure that the processor has a desired socket type. The CPU socket is the component attached to the motherboard, only allowing for processors of a certain pin-number and design to be seated atop the motherboard, and to function as intended on the motherboard. Compare the operating frequency of the processors. The operating frequency is the rate in cycles per second for the frequency of the clock in a synchronous circuit. In a dual core processor, each core will operate at the indicated frequency, and in a hyper-threading processor, two core will be simulated but only one will function at the indicated operating frequency.

4. Compare the memory cache and the power consumption. Memory cache is memory stored in the processor to reduce the average time to access memory. There can be as many as three levels of cache on a given processor. The processor memory cache needs to be of a size substantial enough to be able to be accessed faster than main memory. Also compare the power consumption of the processor. Dependent on needs and capability, scrutinize the amount of wattage the processor is utilizing to carry out its processes.

References

• CompTIA A+ Certification All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies. (For Dummies) 2007