The Pentium 4 was a significant step forward for processors.
The Pentium 4 central processing unit (or CPU) was introduced to desktop PCs during the year 2000, succeeding the Pentium III CPU. In contrast to earlier processors, the P4 aimed to increase performance by running at a faster rate (a higher CPU frequency) while sacrificing some efficiencies.
Types
Intel released several versions of the Pentium 4 CPU, featuring cores named Williamette, Northwood, Prescott and Cedar Mill (the core is the design of the internal processor wiring and technology). A high-performance Extreme Edition was also released. The company made two P4s for the growing mobile market, the Mobile Pentium 4-M and the Mobile Pentium 4.
Specifications
During its lifetime, the P4 CPU was available at clock speeds of 1.3 gigahertz to 3.8 gigahertz. Early P4s supported socket 423 motherboards, though these were soon replaced by socket 478 models. The later CPUs supported the more modern LGA 775 socket type. The dimensions of the CPU changed based on the socket support -- socket 423 models (early Pentium 4s) were 2.1 by 2.1 inches, socket 478 models (mid-term Pentium 4s) were 1.38 by 1.38 inches, while the socket LGA 775 models (later Pentium 4s) were measured at 1.47 by 1.47 inches.
Compatibility
A Pentium 4 CPU can be fitted to any compatible motherboard -- this board will need a 423-pin, 478-pin or LGA 775 socket depending on the type of P4 being used. The CPU can be identified from its packaging or the markings and text on the processor itself.
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