Example of a CPU
When choosing the best processor for your own computing needs, there are various considerations you'll want to examine. These considerations include the number of processor cores inside the CPU, or central processing unit; the number of threads found on those processors; the speed of the CPU; the thermal design power of the chipset; and several other options. If you plan to use your computer for simple Web browsing, e-mailing and document editing, the lower-end options of these considerations will probably suffice, while heavy gaming, video editing and multitasking systems will require higher-end options.
CPU Clock Speed Requirements
Users looking to browse the web and use basic functions will probably find that most low-speed processors such as 1.06 GHz processors will suffice. For high-end users, processors ranging from 2.0 GHz to 3.6 GHz and beyond will offer the faster processing times needed for gaming, video editing and high-end multitasking.
Core and Thread Selection
The number of cores on processors currently range from one to eight. The number of cores offered provides for more processes to be completed at one time, while the number of threads on those processors allows for a certain number of concurrent tasks to be completed per processor unit. For simple Web and PC applications, a single or dual-core processor is recommended. If you plan to take full advantage of multiple applications, gaming and multimedia processing a quad-core (four cores) or higher will offer superior use.
Thermal Design Power
TDP, as thermal design power is commonly called, has to do with the temperature at which a processor can continue to operate without causing damage to the CPU. The higher the thermal design power, the more output a processor can manage without causing heat damage to the core.
Front Side Bus Considerations
The front side bus, or FSB, is the point of contact between your CPU and the computer's motherboard. The faster this connection, the faster your computer can transfer information. These frequencies are measured in megahertz and gigahertz. Front side bus options currently range from 533 MHz to 1600 MHz.
32-bit vs. 64-bit Processors
64-bit processors are used on most new computers. The move to 64-bit technology allows computers to support larger amounts of memory, such as allowing for more than 4GB RAM (the maximum allowed on 32-bit processors). Users who want to play the newest games, edit large video files or use multitask-heavy applications will require a 64-bit chipset.
Nanometres Considerations
The number of nanometers is a direct measure for the number of individual transistors that fit into the CPU itself. For example, a 45nm processor will feature fewer transistors than a 65nm processor. The more transistors the CPU offers, the more it can package into a smaller space.
Proprietary Technology Considerations
Each manufacturer of CPUs offers its own technologies to help increase each CPU's performance. For example, Intel offers Turbo Boost, which helps distribute information over each processor core, allowing for maximum performance to occur. Other technologies include Virtualization, Intel 64, AMD CoolCore and various other options. Check with each chip's specifications to determine which technologies are present and what they offer.
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