dual,core,processor,computer,hardware,perfomance,tecnology,multi,systemA dual core processor is a CPU with two separate cores on the same die, each with
its own cache. It''s the equivalent of getting two microprocessors in one. In a
single-core or traditional processor the CPU is fed strings of instructions it must
order, execute, and then selectively store in its cache for quick retrieval. When
data outside the cache is required, it is retrieved through the system bus from
random access memory (RAM) or from storage devices. Accessing these slows
down performance to the maximum speed the bus, RAM or storage device will
allow, which is far slower than the speed of the CPU. The situation is compounded
when multi-tasking. In this case the processor must switch back and forth between
two or more sets of data streams and programs. CPU resources are depleted and
performance suffers.
In a dual core processor each core handles incoming data strings simultaneously to
improve efficiency. Just as two heads are better than one, so are two hands. Now
when one is executing the other can be accessing the system bus or executing its
own code. Adding to this favorable scenario, both AMD and Intel''s dual-core
flagships are 64-bit.To utilize a dual core processor, the operating system must be
able to recognize multi-threading and the software must have simultaneous multithreading
technology (SMT) written into its code. SMT enables parallel multithreading
wherein the cores are served multi-threaded instructions in parallel.
Without SMT the software will only recognize one core. Adobe Photoshop is an
example of SMT-aware software. SMT is also used with multi-processor systems
common to servers.
A dual core processor is different from a multi-processor system. In the latter there
are two separate CPUs with their own resources. In the former, resources are
shared and the cores reside on the same chip. A multi-processor system is faster
than a system with a dual core processor, while a dual core system is faster than a
single-core system, all else being equal. An attractive value of dual core
processors is that they do not require a new motherboard, but can be used in
existing boards that feature the correct socket. For the average user the difference
in performance will be most noticeable in multi-tasking until more software is
SMT aware. Servers running multiple dual core processors will see an appreciable
increase in performance. Multi-core processors are the goal and as technology
shrinks, there is more "real-estate" available on the die. In the fall of 2004 Bill Siu
of Intel predicted that current accommodating motherboards would be here to stay
until 4-core CPUs eventually force a changeover to incorporate a new memory
controller that will be required for handling 4 or more cores.