If one is not running multiple programs, is there a difference in perfromance with a dual processor?

Question

I have a pentium 4 processor at 2.6, but I am buying a machine with dual core processors at 2.13(?). Am I going to notice a decrease in speed when I only run 1 program?

Answer 1

Assuming you have at least Windows, Antivirus and a Spyware blocker running, you have at least three things running just when you boot the computer (probably more), much less once you've loaded other programs. So long as you have the proper drivers loaded for your system to take advantage of it, you should notice some increases... if nothing else, it'll take a good bit more for one program to make your entire computer freeze up until it's done doing something.

Will you get more raw processing from just one program? Not every time. But overall, I think you will be pleased. (I say this after being issued a dual core processor computer at work... I'll be looking for that next time I get one for home. :) )

Answer 2

That depends on the program, if its a huge program like autocad its possible you may slow down. Smaller programs you might still notice an increase in speed as the other programs that always run in the program can all head for the second processor while the first one works on the bigger program. Keep in mind that windows has a million things happening in the back ground and these affect your overall speed.

Answer 3

If that 2.13Ghz thing is Core2 Duo, it is FAST even if only one core is running. Core2 Duo is newer technology that does more per clock cycle and at lower wattage. And it is a great overclocker too. It can easily overclock above 2.6Ghz without a sweat.
Look at what my idols could do w/ the 1.86Ghz E6300:
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