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Manufacturer
- Intel and AMD are the two producers of processors used in modern PCs.
- Both Intel and AMD processors work in PC systems and support Windows software.
- Intel has a larger market share, while AMD processors generally cost less.
- Processor performance and special features vary between models and manufacturers.
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32-bit
- A 32-bit processor can process 32-bits of information at a time
- 32-bit processors have a limit of 4GB
- The processor instruction set identifies all instructions (operations) that a processor can perform.
- 32-bit processors use the IA-32 instruction set (also referred to as x86).
- Itanium processors from Intel use the IA-64 instruction set.
- AMD64 and Intel 64 processors use the x86-64 instruction set (also referred to as x64).
- 32-bit applications can run on 64-bit processors using the following methods:
- Itanium processors use a software layer to translate between IA-32 and IA-64.
- x64 processors execute both 32-bit and 64-bit instructions in the hardware.
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a 64-bit
a 64-bit processor can process 64-bits of information. Over the last several years, processors have been moving from 32-bit processors to 64-bit processors.
- The biggest advantage of 64-bit processors over 32-bit processors is in the amount of memory they can use. 32-bit processors have a limit of 4GB. 64-bit processors have a theoretical limit of 16.8 TB, although operating system and current hardware limitations impose a much lower practical limit. The operating system and applications must be written for 64-bits to take full advantage of 64-bit processing. The processor instruction set identifies all instructions (operations) that a processor can perform. 32-bit processors use the IA-32 instruction set (also referred to as x86).
- Itanium processors from Intel use the IA-64 instruction set.
- AMD64 and Intel 64 processors use the x86-64 instruction set (also referred to as x64).
- 32-bit applications can run on 64-bit processors using the following methods: Itanium processors use a software layer to translate between IA-32 and IA-64. x64 processors execute both 32-bit and 64-bit instructions in the hardware. Applications typically perform better on 64-bit systems. 64-bit applications typically perform better than 32-bit applications. In some cases, 32-bit applications might perform better on 64-bit systems.
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Speed
Processors operate using an internal clock that is the same as, or is a multiple of, the motherboard bus speed. The speed is represented in MHz and is also referred to as the frequency. You can purchase processors of the same type but with different speed ratings. When selecting a processor, make sure the motherboard supports the processor speed by reading the motherboard documentation first. Most motherboards automatically detect the processor speed. If not, you might need to use jumpers or edit the CMOS to configure the processor speed.
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Multi-core
A multiple core processor has multiple processors within a single processor package. Dual-core, triple-core, and quad-core processors are typical in desktop systems. Multi-core systems enable the operating system to run multiple applications simultaneously. Without multiple processors, applications appear to run at the same time, but must wait their turn for processing time from the single processor. Some applications can be written to execute on multiple processors at the same time. Older motherboards had two (or more) processor sockets to provide a multiple processor solution. Newer multi-core processors use a single motherboard socket to support multiple processors.
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Cache
- Cache is memory that the processor can access directly without using the system RAM. There are three types of processor cache:
- Level 1 (L1) cache is integrated on the processor die itself and stores instructions for the processor. On multi-core systems, each processor typically has its own L1 cache. Some processors might have two L1 caches, one for instructions and one for data.
- Level 2 (L2) cache is additional cache used for both instructions and data. Depending on the processor, L2 cache might be shared between two or more cores, or exclusive to a single core.
- Level 3 (L3) cache is additional cache beyond the level 2 cache.
- For multi-core systems, L3 cache is shared between all cores.
- Be aware of the following regarding processor cache:
- The size of the cache increases as you move from L1 to L3, with L1 cache being the smallest. As a general rule, a processor with more cache performs better than a processor with less cache (all other things being equal).
- Originally, only L1 cache was on the processor die, with L2 cache being on the motherboard between the CPU and the RAM. As processor technology has advanced, L2 cache moved to the processor die, with L3 cache being on the motherboard.
- Today, all three cache levels are located on the processor.
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process size
The process size refers to the manufacturing process used to etch transistors onto the silicon wafer that will become the CPU. A smaller process size means smaller transistors, which translates into a smaller CPU die with more transistors and less power consumption. Process size is expressed in microns (such as .25 microns) or nanometers (90 nm which equals .09 microns).
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Hyper-threading
Hyper-threading is a feature of some Intel processors that allows a single processor to run threads (instructions) in parallel, as opposed to processing threads linearly. Hyper-threading enables a processor to execute two threads at the same time. For example, on a quad-core Intel system that supports hyper-threading, the processor can execute 8 threads at a time (2 on each core). Hyper-threading is not the same as multithreading. Multithreading is a feature of an application that allows it to send multiple threads at the same time. Applications are typically written to support multithreading to take advantage of multiple cores (executing threads on two or more processors at the same time) or hyper-threading features.
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Throttling
Throttling is the process of modifying the operating characteristics of a processor based on current conditions. Throttling is often used in mobile processors to change the operating frequency to minimize power consumption and heat output. Throttling can also be used in low memory conditions to slow down the processing of I/O memory requests, processing one sequence at a time in the order the request was received. Related to throttling, processors or the operating system can shut down unused cores in multi-core systems to conserve energy. Some Intel processors include a Turbo Boost feature. Turbo Boost, the opposite of throttling, allows the processor to dynamically run above its rated speed to improve performance.
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Mobile processor
Mobile CPUs are used in notebook computers where portability and mobility are a concern. Special versions of processors are built to minimize power consumption and the amount of heat generated.
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Virtualization
Virtualization allows a single physical machine (known as the host operating system) to run multiple virtual machines (known as the guest operating systems). The virtual machines appear to be self-contained and separate physical systems. Virtualization is performed by adding a layer between the physical system and the operating system. This layer acts as the hardware to the guest system. Early virtualization was performed using software only. Newer virtualization uses special instructions supported by the processor to improve performance. VMware is the most popular virtualization solution. Microsoft has several virtualization products including Virtual PC, Virtual Server, and Hyper-V. If you are planning on implementing a virtual solution, check to see whether hardware support in the CPU is required. Hardware support is provided by processors with the following features: Intel's Virtualization Technology (VT) AMD's AMD Virtualization (AMD-V)
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Integrated memory controller
In a traditional processor design, the processor is connected to the front side bus and the Northbridge chip. The processor communicates with other system components through the front side bus. Smaller manufacturing size has reduced the overall size of a processor, leaving more room on the processor die for additional cores or cache. To improve performance, some processors include the memory controller on the processor die rather than in the Northbridge chip, resulting in faster memory access by the processor.
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Cooling
Processors require some form of heat dissipation system to function properly. Without a heat dissipation system, a processor will overheat and burn out in less than a minute. Most modern CPUs require a heat sink and a fan. Between the CPU and the heat sink, thermal paste or a thermal pad helps in the transfer of heat from the CPU to the cooling unit.
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CPU Performance Facts
- If two processors are of the same type, higher speed typically means higher performance. With processors of different types, speeds might not be comparable. It is important to make sure your mother board can support the speed of your processor.
- Many processors use a performance rating instead of speed with a higher number indicating a better-performing processor. However, performance ratings are typically only applicable between models of the same manufacturer. In some cases, buying a processor with double the cache can nearly double the performance. Dual core processors offer better performance, but typically not double. Software must be specially written to take best advantage of the dual core processors. Special instruction sets supported by a processor can increase performance. For example, hyperthreading support on Intel processors can boost performance for specific types of operations. Performance can also be increased by modifying other system components such as adding more RAM, using a faster disk, or improving cooling and ventilation. Overclocking is a feature that causes the processor to operate at a higher speed. Overclocking is typically performed by those who want to get the maximum performance from their systems. Some important things to know about overclocking are: Overclocking can cause system instability, component damage, and can void your warranty.
- Motherboard bus, processor, and memory settings should be adjusted to match. Overclocking may require more voltage.
- Overclocking often increases heat output. For this reason, it may be necessary to upgrade your cooling devices.
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All things equal, what processor size would consume the least amount of power?
32 nm
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What is the biggest advantage of 64-bit processors over 32-bit processors?
The ability to use over 4 GB of memory
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What processor features is used to dynamically reduce power consumption based on current operating condition
Throttling
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Give two true statements of the 32 or 64 processor.
- 64 bit processor use th x86-64 instructions set also referred to as x64
- 32 bit processors use only the IA-32 instructions set also referred to as x86
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What is the purpose of cache memory?
Allows a processor to access data more quickly
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What are two major disadvantages to overclocking the CPU?
- Voided warranty
- increase heat output
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What is true about the relative performance of an AMD & Intel processor.
Performance will depend on other factors such as cache and other features.
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Give two true statements about processor cache.
- l1 is typically unique to a processor core
- L3 is shared between all cores
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What refers to placing two processors on a single processor chip or die?
Multi-core
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What is zif socket?
A special socket for inserting and securing a processor
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What feature on Intel chips allows a single processor to run threads in parallel, as opposed to the older and slower technology of processing threads linearly?
Hyper-threading
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What terms refers to increasing the clock speed of a component in an effort to increase performance?
Overclocking
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Where would you find a multi-processor sockets?
multiply processor sockets on the motherboard
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