The CPU was first developed at Intel with the help of Ted Hoff and others in the early

1970s. The first processor released by Intel was the 4004 processor, shown in the picture.

Components of the CPU

In the CPU, there are two primary components.

1. ALU (arithmetic logic unit) - performs mathematical, logical, and decision operations.

2. CU (control unit) - directs all the processors operations.

Over the history of computer processors, the speed (clock speed) and capabilities of the
processor have dramatically improved. For example, the first microprocessor was the
Intel 4004 that was released on November 15, 1971, and had 2,300 transistors and
performed 60,000 operations per second. In 1998 the Intel core i9 processor had around
4.7 billion transistors and performs around 412,090 million instructions per second
(MIPS).

Types of CPUs
Today, in addition to the different names of computer processors, there are different
architectures (32-bit and 64-bit), speeds, and capabilities.

Comparing Processors

 Speed of processor
 Size of cache
 Number of registers
 Bit size
 Speed of Front side bus

Clock Speed Isn't Everything

Clock speed and cores are the most heavily advertised aspect of processors. Clock speed is
usually noted in hertz (e.g. 3.14 GHz) while the number of cores is usually advertised
as dual-core, quad-core, hexa-core, or octa-core. For a long time, it was this simple: the
higher the clock speed, the faster the processor, and more cores meant better speeds. But
processor technology today isn't dependent as much on the clock speed and cores because
CPUs now have several other parts that determine how fast they can perform.

In a nutshell, it comes down to how much computing can be done when all parts of a CPU
come together in a single clock cycle. If performing Task X takes two clock cycles on CPU
A and one clock cycle on CPU B, then CPU B might be the better processor even if CPU
A has a higher clock speed.
Check Single-Threaded Performance

The dirty little secret in the computer world is that even though you're buying a processor
with four cores, all four of those cores might not actually be used when you're running
applications.

Most software today is still single-threaded, which means the program is running as one
process and a process can only run on one core. So even if you have four cores, you won't
be getting the full performance of all four cores for that application. That's why you also
need to check the single-threaded (or single-core) performance of any processor
before buying it.

Cache Performance Is King

The cache is one of the most under-appreciated parts of a CPU. In fact, a cache with poor
specs could be slowing down your PC! So always check the cache specs of a processor
before you purchase it.

Cache is essentially RAM for your processor, which means that the processor uses the
cache to store all of the functions it has recently performed. Whenever those functions are
requested again, the processor can draw the data from the cache instead of performing it a
second time, thus being faster.

Processors have different levels of cache, starting with L1 and going up to L3 or L4,
and you should only compare cache size at the same level. If one CPU has L3 cache of
4 MB and another has L3 cache of 6 MB, the one with 6MB is the better choice (assuming
clock speed, core, and single-threaded performance are all comparable).

Integrated Graphics Matter, Too

Intel and AMD have combined the CPU and the graphics card into an APU. New
processors can usually handle the graphics requirements of most everyday users without
requiring a separate graphics card.

These graphics chipsets also vary in performance depending on the processor. Again, you
can't compare an AMD to an Intel here, and even comparing within the same family
can be confusing. For example, Intel has Intel HD, Intel Iris, and Intel Iris Pro graphics,
but not every Iris is better than HD.

How fast does a CPU transfer data?

As with any device that utilizes electrical signals, the data travels very near the speed of
light, which is 299,792,458 m/s. How close to the speed of light a signal can get depends
 on the medium (metal in wire) through which it's traveling. Most electrical signals are
traveling at about 75 to 90% the speed of light.

Important Terminologies

Multitasking
Multitasking, in a computer, is allowing a user to perform more than one
computer task (such as the operation of an application program) at a time. When you open
your Web browser and then open Word at the same time, you are causing the operating
system to do multitasking.

Thread
With computer programming, a thread is a small set of instructions designed to be scheduled
and executed by the CPU independently of the parent process. For example, a program may
have an open thread waiting for a specific event to occur or running a separate job, allowing
the main program to perform other tasks. A program is capable of having multiple threads
open at once and terminates or suspends them after the task is completed or the program is
closed. A multithreading CPU is capable of executing multiple threads concurrently.

Parallel Processing
Parallel processing is a method of simultaneously breaking up and running program tasks
on multiple microprocessors, thereby reducing processing time. Parallel processing may
be accomplished via a computer with two or more processors or via a computer network.
Parallel processing is also called parallel computing.
Dual-core

When referring to computer processors, dual-core is a technology that enables two complete
processing units (cores) to run in parallel on a single chip. This gives the user virtually twice as
much power in a single chip. For the computer to take full advantage of dual-core, it must be
running on an operating system that supports programs that can split its tasks between the
cores.

You can think of a computer with dual-core as a computer that has two CPUs (processors). If the
computer is a quad-core, you could think of that computer as having four processors.

Multicore processor
A multicore processor is a single computing component comprised of two or
more CPUs that read and execute the actual program instructions. The individual cores can
execute multiple instructions in parallel, increasing the performance of software which is written
to take advantage of the unique architecture.

The first multicore processors were produced by Intel and AMD in the early 2000s. Today,
processors are created with two cores ("dual core"), four cores ("quad core"), six cores
("hexa core"), and eight cores ("octo core"). Processors are made with as many as 100
physical cores, and 1000 effective independent cores by using FPGAs (Field Programmable
Gate Arrays).

Quad-core

When referring to computer processors, quad-core is a technology that enables four complete
processing units (cores) to run in parallel on a single chip. Having this many cores give the user
virtually four times as much power in a single chip. For the computer to take full advantage of
quad-core, it must be running on an operating system that supports TLP and for applications to
support TLP.

The number of threads that a quad-core processor has available to process requests differs
by processor. To determine how many threads a particular quad-core processor can handle,
check the manufacturer's website for the specifications of the processor.

Hyper-Threading
Updated: 04/26/2017 by Computer Hope
HT (Hyper-Threading) is a technology developed by Intel and introduced with
the Xeon processor and later included with the Intel Pentium 4 processor. HT allows the processor
to work more efficiently by processing two sets of instructions at the same time, making it look like
two logical processors. Also, software written for dual processor computers or multi-processor
computers are still compatible with HT.

How many cores make a computer faster?

You might think more cores will make your processor faster overall, but that's not
always the case. It's a little more complicated than that.

More cores are faster only if a program can split its tasks between the cores. Not all
programs are developed to split tasks between cores. The clock speed of each core also
is a crucial factor in speed, as is the architecture. A newer dual core CPU with a higher
clock speed will often outperform an older quad core CPU with a lower clock speed.

Power Consumption

More cores also lead to higher power consumption by the processor. When the
processor is switched on, it supplies power to all the cores, not just one at a time.

Chip makers have been trying to reduce power consumption and make processors more
energy efficient. However, as a general rule of thumb, a quad core processor will draw
more power from your laptop (and thus make it run out of battery faster).
More Cores Equal More Heat

More factors than the core affect the heat generated by a processor. But again, as a general
rule, more cores leads to more heat.

Due to this additional heat, manufacturers need to add better heat sinks or other cooling
solutions.

Are Quad Core CPUs More Expensive Than Dual Core?

More cores isn't always a higher price. Like we said earlier, clock speed, architecture
versions, and other considerations come into play.

But if all other factors are the same, then more cores will fetch a higher price.

It's All About The Software

Here's the dirty little secret that chip manufacturers don't want you to know. It's not about
how many cores you are running, it's about what software you are running on them.

Programs have to be specifically developed to take advantage of multiple processors.

Such "multi-threaded software" isn't as common as you might think.

Importantly, even if it's a multi-threaded program, it's also about what it is used for. For
example, the Google Chrome web browser supports multiple processes, as does video
editing software Adobe Premier Pro.

Adobe Premier Pro instructs different cores to work on different aspects of your edit.
Considering the many layers involved in video editing, this makes sense, as each core
can work on a separate task.

Similarly, Google Chrome instructs different cores to work on different tabs. But herein
lies the problem. Once you open a web page in a tab, it is usually static after that. There
is no further processing work needed; the rest of the work is about storing the page in the
RAM. Which means even though the core can be used for a background tab, there is no
need for it.

This Google Chrome example is an illustration of how even multi-threaded software

might not give you much of a real-world performance boost.
Where Do More Cores Really Help?

Now that you know what cores do and their restrictions in boosting performance, you
must be asking yourself, "Do I need more cores?" Well, it depends on what you plan to
do with them.

Dual Core And Quad Core In Gaming

If you fancy yourself to be a gamer, then get more cores on a gaming PC. The vast
majority of new AAA titles (i.e. popular games from big studios) support multi-threaded
architecture. Video games are still largely dependent on the graphics card to look good,
but a multi-core processor helps too.

For any professional who works with video or audio programs, more cores will be
beneficial. Most of the popular audio and video editing tools take advantage of multi-
threaded processing.

Photoshop And Design

If you're a designer, then a higher clock speed and more processor cache will increase
speeds better than more cores. Even the most popular design software, Adobe Photoshop,
largely supports single threaded or lightly threaded processes. Multiple cores isn't going
to be a significant boost with this.

Should You Get More Cores?

Overall, a quad core processor is going to perform faster than a dual core processor for
general computing. Each program you open will work on its own core, so if the tasks are
shared, the speeds are better. If you use a lot of programs simultaneously, switch between
them often, and assigning them their own tasks, then get a processor with more cores.

Just know this: overall system performance is one area where far too many factors come
into play. Don't expect a magical boost by changing one component like the processor.
Choose wisely and buy the right processor for your needs.
INTEL OR AMD CPUS DUAL CORE, QUAD CORE PROCESSORS TO CHOOSE
FROM FOR YOUR SYSTEM

Every PC has a Central Processing Unit (CPU) this acts as the brain of your system. It connects to the
Motherboard and works alongside the other components processing many instructions at the same time
between the different hardware and memory systems.
Advancements in CPU technology now mean systems typically come at least Dual Core, Quad Core or more
processors (on one single chip) instead of the traditional one core per chip. Now the total number of Cores can
slot into a socket as before and a single heat sink and fan can keep everything to the right temperature.

Current Intel or AMD CPU Prices using our feed pages

Intel and AMD are the two companies who dominate the PC Processor market. Both have been around for
decades and have become the main Chip suppliers for the home and business markets. There are a few other
makers but they focus on mobile, tablets, and devices like Pi Zero etc use different processors.
Both companies have fierce rivalry, they file, and counter file court cases against each other, all we care about
is that they have near identical chip products on the market at the same time as they compete for the fastest
chip and share of the market.
The competing products are very close to each other and only the techies compare the benchmarks before
choosing. Sometimes Intel’s latest range is ahead on the benchmarks other times AMD.

Intel Pentium Dual Core Processors

The Intel Pentium processors with Intel dual-core technology deliver great desktop performance,
low power enhancements, and multitasking for everyday computing.

Intel i3 Processors (Ivy Bridge)

Intel Core i3 dual core processors provide 4-way multitasking capability, runs at fixed speed
ideal for typical tasks and media playback but not games.

Intel i5 Processors
Intel i5 usually quad core but some dual processors deliver the next level of productivity. Mostly
the same as i3 but with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, delivers extra speed when you need it.
Like the i3 integrated graphics is included but is only ideal for normal use not for gaming.

Intel i7 Processors
Intel i7 processors dual or quad core for the most demanding applications with cache and faster
clock speeds. Quad-core processors feature 8-way threading, four cores will run faster, and more
L3 cache, but will consume more power. High-end use, video and gaming with dedicated video
card.
AMD A4 - These A4 processors have 2 processor cores and include a Radeon graphics chip. Aimed for use
with lower end systems.
AMD A6 - A6 processors dual core, includes turbo function similar to Intel’s allows the processor to adapt to
the task needed. Integrated graphics, on par with Core i3 range.
AMD A8 - 4 processor cores is comparable to the i3 and low i5, its graphic part is faster than Intel’s version,
can handle light gaming with ease.
AMD A10 - 4 processors these quad cores are comparable with the Intel i5, and some i7s should benefit from
better battery life.
ASeries processors use the FM2 socket so they will only fit in a Motherboard with FM2.

2013 AMD Piledrivers are the latest version Piledriver then FX-4,
FX-6, FX-8 for either 4-8 cores, they use the AM3+ socket so can only
be used in Motherboards with AM3+

Each series of processor usually has a couple of generations per series

where enhancements and tweaks are made, the main thing to check and
consider is that the type of processor is compatible with your
motherboard and fits your need and budget.