Your processor is the brains behind your notebook, desktop or server. With so many emerging technologies it can be difficult to determine which CPU is best for you so use the handy guide below to answer all your processing questions.
The terms processor, central processor or CPU refers to the central processing unit, the most important element of your computer. Any action performed by your PC depends on interaction with the CPU. Without a processor your PC does not know how to work!
This is the model number and is designed to help you simplify you processor purchase. For AMD, higher model numbers are indicative of relative performance in a processor family. The "+" at the end of each model number indicates added performance benefits. In the case of Intel, the processor number is not a measurement of performance, nor is it the only factor to consider when selecting a processor. For a full explanation visit Intel® and AMD's websites.
Clock speed relates to the speed of a processor and is measured in 'hertz'. This represents how many times a second the processor can perform a basic function such as the addition of two numbers. Processors nowadays operate in the GHz range- billions of cycles per second.
This used to be to the case but now there are other factors to take into consideration. Intel® and AMD, the two main CPU manufacturers compete with each other to bring the latest technology in the smallest form. This has resulted in a huge array of processors available on the market today.
Cache memory is random access memory (RAM) that a computer microprocessor can access more quickly than it can access regular RAM. As the microprocessor processes data, it looks first in the cache memory and if it finds the data there (from a previous reading of data). Therefore it does not have to do the more time-consuming reading of data from larger memory. The Level 2 (L2) cache is extra-fast memory built into the processor itself. The larger and faster the cache, the more efficient the processor. Level 1 (L1 cache) is used for caching the processor's internal instructions.
Hyper-Threading or HT, allows one chip to act like two processors enabling different parts of the CPU to work on different tasks at the same time. Hyper-Threading is Intel's trademark for what is more commonly referred to in the industry as Simultaneous Multi-Threading (SMT). Dual Core offers two execution cores in one processor, therefore offering functionality and performance when you have running multiple applications at the same time.
The socket type is mentioned as either a name or a number (eg 939). This refers to the socket on the motherboard that the processor is designed to fit.
The FSB refers to the front-side bus; the interface between the CPU and the main system memory. This determines the fastest type of memory your system can use. Obviously the faster the FSB, the quicker data can be passed between the processor and the memory.
Mobile versions of processors exist from both AMD and Intel® for use within laptops. As they are specifically designed for notebooks they incorporate power-saving characteristics to optimise battery life and reduce heat generation.
If you just use your PC for basic applications; for example checking your emails and browsing the internet then there's no point splashing out on an expensive fast CPU. However if you are into gaming, or audio/video editing you'll require a processor that can run at fast FSB speeds and has large amounts of cache. If you generally have a lot of applications open at the same time, the implementation of Hyper-Threading (HT) or Dual Core will really benefit you offering faster PC performance.
AMD AM2
The AM2 motherboards can take on a wide range of AMD Athlon 64, Athlon 64 X2, Athlon 64 FX X2 and Sempron LE processors. Use Athlon for medium to high-end performance, while Sempron is the budget CPU that can do everyday tasks.
AMD Opteron™
Introducing the world's first x86 Dual-Core Processor, the AMD Opteron™ processor provides the next evolution in performance technology for servers and workstations.
AMD Phenom™
The Phenom series include powerful triple core and quad core processors from AMD.
Intel® Celeron™
The Celeron™ family is a line of budget x86 processors based on Pentium™ designs. Priced lower than their Pentium™ counterparts, the Celeron™ processors have certain high-end processor features disabled (like dual processing or multiprocessing). The Celerons are also slower than similar-clocked Pentiums due to smaller L2 cache size and sometimes slower bus speed but are perfect for processing on a budget.
Intel® Core 2 Duo™
These dual-core processors are a mainstream standard in many desktop and laptop PCs.
Intel® Core 2 Quad™
The Core 2 Quad series include the most powerful processors from Intel®.
Intel® Xeon™
Designed for dual and multi-processor server and workstation platforms, Intel® Xeon™ processor gives you the freedom to focus more on your business, and helps you gain greater flexibility and lower costs.