Pentium 4 Vs. Pentium Core 2 Duo
As software programs, and our need to run so many of them simultaneously, grow exponentially every year, so do our demands on a computer's hardware. All those tasks amplify the burden placed on a processor, which now needs to work faster, harder and with greater stability than ever before. In this ever-changing world of technology, it is important to know what you need and compare it with what is offered.
Microprocessor
A microprocessor is essentially the brains of your computer, taking the input from a keyboard, mouse or disk drive and translating it for output to monitors or printers. The microprocessors do not work alone and rely on memory, either random-access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM), to function fully.
History
Intel Corp. developed the first general-purpose microprocessor, the 4004, from a design originally meant for complex desktop calculators. By 1971, Intel had rolled out the 4004, a 4-bit design targeting the mass market for computers, and a year later released the 8-bit 8080. Research and development moved quickly and by the mid-1980s most of Intel's business revolved around the microprocessor.
Pentium 4
Intel's Pentium 4 microprocessor, first available for computers in 2000, serves in laptops or desktops. The Pentium 4 is a single-core processor, or one space for a microprocessor. Its gigahertz rating, ranging from 2.0 GHz to 3.2 GHz, is an indication of its speed.
Pentium Core 2 Duo
In comparison, the Pentium Core 2 Duo design is for multiprocessor capabilities, in this case two. Intel released these microprocessors in 2006. Their clock speed is rated anywhere from 1.8 GHz to 3.33 GHz per-processor, thus doubling the overall effectiveness of the chip. Many new computers come standard with the Core 2 Duo.
Comparisons
The Pentium Core 2 Duo gives twice the processing speed potential with the dual-socket design. In addition to being faster, with its smaller size it is less likely to overheat. Since the Core 2 Duo was released more recently, its technology is much more current. The Pentium 4, however, offers quick speeds at a more economical price. If your computing needs are not demanding, then the Pentium 4 gives the budget-minded user more than enough power.
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