What are the advantages of having a multi-core processor?

Question

I am thinking of purchasing a computer with a Quad-core processor (Intel C2D Q6600), and was wondering how exactly will 4xC architecture will improve the performance of the software that I run. Specifically, with regard to older programs that are *not* programmed to take advantage of multi-core computing.. will I still see a speed surge when I run them on such a computer?

Or... is the advantage of multi-core processor simply that I will be able to convert a powerpoint to pdf AND play Oblivion at the same time with no detrimental effect on framerate.. but it will be just the same experience if I *didn't* run a 2nd process (i.e. converting stuff to pdf).

Thanks!!!!

Answer 1

Hi,

A modern operating system such as MacOS Tiger and Leopard or Vista will assign tasks to the processors so that each processor is kept busy.

One processor might be working on your PowerPoint while another deals with a movie you're editing in a different program.

It will be many years before consumer programs take advantage of the ability to use more than 1 processor simultaneously - but this will come eventually. Bigger speed gains are available by using binary code instead of high level languages such as C#, so I would expect that kind of optimization before we see multi-processor optimization in applications.

-Jim

Answer 2

If the software you use takes advantage of multiple cores, it helps speed up some.
having a dual core will not necisarily double your speed, nor will a quad core quadruple it.

Basically, what they do is share the work load.

It's like having a friend (or 3) help you wash your car.

Answer 3

Multiple cores don't help much for games/apps that aren't coded to utilize them. Right now the advantage is that you can run multiple processor hungry apps and they won't affect each other performance wise, so you are correct.

Answer 4

The advantage is that your machine if "future proof". i.e. your computer would be ready (for the future) when operating system and applications start taking advantage of quad processor.
It is trade off for expensive system today (that doesn't have operating system or application ready at present to take advantage of this feature) or a system that is "future proof" (for operating system and application that will be develop in future that will use this feature efficiently).

Answer 5

it increases your pc speed
quad core is the latest tech u got