Dual-cores vs. dual processors
At first glance, it may seem as if there would be little difference between a dual-core processor system and a dual processor system. However, there are substantial differences in how these two systems operate.
History
Dual-core processors have been around since Intel unveiled the first Pentium dual-core product in 2006. Dual processor systems have been in existence for decades, but mostly in enterprise applications rather than consumer PCs.
Physical Differences
Dual-core processors consist of two logic units, called cores, on one piece of hardware. Dual processor systems use two processors, and each piece of hardware connects to its own socket.
Functional Differences
Dual-core processors and dual processor systems have the same basic function. However, dual processor systems require special hardware, like purpose-built dual processor motherboards.
Performance
Dual processor systems can dramatically outperform dual-core processors in applications like 3-D rendering and the routing of network traffic. In day-to-day tasks, like email and word processing, there is no noticeable difference.
Price
The price of dual-core processors can be well under $100. Dual processor systems typically cost at least several thousand dollars because of the special hardware they require.
Verdict
Dual-core processors are better for consumers because they perform day-to-day tasks just as well for less money, but dual processor systems are better for businesses that require extremely powerful computers for special tasks.
Tags: processor systems, dual processor, day-to-day tasks, Differences Dual-core, Differences Dual-core processors, Dual processor, Dual processor