Upgrading a CPU is easy because it requires little technical knowledge and the ability to follow instructions. Choosing the right CPU, however, can be difficult because of all the different options available.
Single Core vs. Dual Core
Most programs only know run on one core. Only programs that know use two cores will run faster. However, having a dual core will allow you to run several programs at the same time without slowdowns.
AMD and Intel Compatibility
Intel and AMD are both compatible with the X86 instruction set invented by Intel. It allows every program made for X86 to work on both CPUs. However, AMD CPUs are not physically compatible with Intel CPUs. You cannot replace a CPU from one manufacturer with one from a different manufacturer.
Sockets
AMD and Intel sockets, the receptacle for the CPU, are different and therefore the CPU are not interchangeable. Be aware however that even the different lines of CPU by the same manufacturer might not use the same socket.
For Intel, the socket 775 has been present since the P4 era and is still the predominant socket today. Upgrading a P4 is not as simple as changing the CPU because the chipsets made before the core 2 duo are usually not compatible with it. Be sure your motherboard can accept a core duo CPU before purchasing one. The socket 775 has a full line of CPUs from low end to high end.
Intel introduced two new sockets, the 1156 for the i3 and i5, for low and middle end CPU, and the 1366 for the high end i7.
AMD also offers have three sockets in its catalog. The AM2 and AM2+ were introduced to the market in 2006, coinciding with the introduction of the DDR2 memory. AM3 was introduced in early 2009 and works in conjunction with DDR3 memory. AMD maintains some level of compatibility and AM2/AM2+ CPUs will work on an AM3 motherboard, but an AM3 CPU will not work on an AM2/AM2+ motherboard. Both sockets have a full range of CPUs from the low end to the high end.
Speed Improvement
Speed increase depends on how you use your computer. For example, you want to upgrade a dual core CPU of 2Ghz, if you are using your computer for gaming, office work and video work.
If you choose a quad core of the same speed, the video work can be twice as fast if the encoding software uses more than two cores. However, for games and office work, there would be no increase in performance.
If you choose a dual core of 3Ghz, the video work would be 50 percent faster. Any increase in gaming performance would be harder to measure as the core depends greatly on the video card but some improvement would be seen. For office work, the changes would be minimal if any are seen. Office work does not require much power, except for perhaps a large Excel macro or the like. The CPU usually operates at a fraction of its nominal speed to lower its power consumption and heat generation.
CPU Variation
CPUs are not categorized only by speed but also by core type and cache. Both AMD and Intel introduce modifications to their manufacturing processes during the life of a CPU, lowering energy requirements and improving performances. Different core revisions can also have different amounts of cache memory. The performance difference between the cores is usually minimal but choosing a CPU with the lowest energy rating and the maximum cache is a good way to pick a CPU.
Considerations
To upgrade your CPU, you will need to know what the make is of your current CPU, what socket you are using and what CPU your motherboard can use. Be sure to note the CPU's nominal speed and not the throttled speed meant to save energy.
Overclocking
Overclocking, or running a CPU above its rated speed, is a common practice that can have great benefits but also has some risks. It can be done through the BIOS or using utilities running from your operating system. Any modern CPU from Intel should be able to reach 25 to 50 percent without the need for a special cooling system. While not as good for overclocking, the AMD CPU should be able to be overclocked by 10 to 25 percent. Be aware that overclocking automatically voids the warranty of the CPU.
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