Computer CPU Tips

CPU

  1. How to Increase the Speed of Your Desktop Computer CPU

    2. Understanding Desktop Computer CPU Clock and Front Side Bus Speeds

3. The Dangers of Overclocking Your Desktop CPU

4.  How to know the Speed of Your Desktop Computer CPU

      5. Three types of Computer Processors according to Release Date

     6. Buying a Computer Processor: Six Factors to Consider

1. How to Increase the Speed of Your Desktop Computer CPU

 A fast computer CPU can give you a more efficient machine. The CPU works hand-in-hand with the RAM to load and run all of your computer programs and applications. A fast and powerful CPU, coupled with decent RAM space, can give you fast-loading applications and incredibly quick response times.

There are basically two things that you can do to increase the speed of your desktop computer CPU:

* Overclock

There is nothing you can do to make a CPU run faster than it can. However, desktop computer CPUs are configured to run at speeds that are lower than the maximum speed at which they can run. This is done to promote system stability. You can override the normal settings of your desktop computer CPU by overclocking it. If you overclock it properly, you can have a more powerful version of your desktop computer CPU!

CPU overclocking is sorely limited to desktops because almost all laptop computer CPUs are locked. This means that you cannot change the settings of a laptop computer CPU — not without a lot of hassle, anyway.

* Upgrade

Overclocking can lead to freezes, hang-ups and complete system failure if you overdo it. A safer way to have a faster desktop computer CPU is to upgrade your unit. A computer CPU upgrade can be costly so watch your budget when picking out a replacement CPU.

There are many types of computer CPUs that you can choose from. There are the usual single core CPUs, and there are the newer, more powerful and pricier multi-core CPUs. Your decision will be greatly dependent on the CPU technologies that your computer motherboard supports. You will need an Intel motherboard to use an Intel CPU. The same thing applies to AMD computer hardware.

In terms of budget, overclocking wins over a computer CPU upgrade anytime. If you would like to play things safe, however, it is best to replace your desktop computer CPU with a faster one.

The central processing unit (CPU) of your computer does not refer to the entire computer box as many ordinary users mistakenly call it. But it is a small piece of hardware that is also called the processor or microprocessor that reads, converts, and disposes majority of the instructions inside your computer. It is also often referred to as the “brain” or the ‘think tank” of your computer. That is why buying a CPU should be well advised and thought of to maximize computer use.

2. Understanding Desktop Computer CPU Clock and Front Side Bus Speeds

The CPU or Central Processing Unit, often called processor for short, is usually called the brains of the computer because it is just like the human brain. This piece of PC Computer Hardware takes care of practically all system processes. When you buy a desktop computer CPU, there are two important factors that you will want to carefully consider: the clock speed and the Front Side Bus speed.

* Clock Speed

The clock speed or clock rate of a desktop computer CPU tells you how many cycles the processor can do in one second. It is expressed in gigahertz or megahertz. An old 800MHz processor can do 800 cycles per second, while a modern 3.2GHz processor can do 3200 cycles per second.

The computer CPU needs one or several cycles to perform an action. Thus, the clock speed can give you a good idea of how fast the processor can execute instructions. Generally speaking, the faster the clock speed of your desktop computer CPU, the more actions the CPU can do per second.

* Front Side Bus Speed

The Front Side Bus speed or FSB speed indicates how fast your desktop computer CPU can communicate with Random Access Memory or system memory. If you have two computer CPUs with the same clock speeds but different FSB speeds, the one with the faster FSB speed can execute instructions faster.

FSB speeds can be measured in MHz but are preferably expressed in Megatransfers per second (Mt/s). Expressing FSB speeds in Mt/s is more accurate because the actual FSB speed is contingent on both the FSB clock speed and the number of transfers the processor can do per clock cycle. A desktop computer CPU with a 200MHz FSB that can perform four transfers per clock cycle has an effective FSB speed of 800 Mt/s.

Now that you understand the CPU clock speed and FSB speed, do not forget to check these statistics when you buy a computer CPU. These figures can greatly help you determine the overall processing power of a particular desktop computer CPU.

CPU Information

The central processing unit (CPU) of your computer does not refer to the entire computer box as many ordinary users mistakenly call it. But it is a small piece of hardware that is also called the processor or microprocessor that reads, converts, and disposes majority of the instructions inside your computer. It is also often referred to as the “brain” or the ‘think tank” of your computer. That is why buying a CPU should be well advised and thought of to maximize computer use.

3. The Dangers of Overclocking Your Desktop CPU

CPU overclocking has always had a hold on many diehard computer enthusiasts and gamers. Who does not want a CPU that performs at its very best?

Simply put, overclocking means running your PC computer hardware at its fastest. And you have to do this while maintaining the stability of your system. If not done properly, overclocking can destroy your desktop computer CPU or laptop computer CPU in short order.

Here are two problems that you may have to face when you overclock your computer CPU:

* Overheating

When computer hardware is being used, it gives off some heat. The harder a computer component works, the more heat it gives off. Consequently, overclocking your computer CPU will also cause it to generate more heat than it would otherwise normally make. You are opening the doors to overheating problems when you overclock your CPU.

If you are intent on overclocking your CPU, make sure that you have an advanced computer CPU cooling system in place. Computer water cooling is a very effective but costly way to control computer CPU temperature. A more affordable solution is to replace the heatsink fan with a more efficient one, or to use a thermal paste if you have not already done so.

* System failure

As with all machines that are run beyond their normal specifications, you will be dealing with system crashes — which can range from minor to very major depending on how large your overclocking mistakes are.

You can be dealing with a functional computer but a desktop or laptop computer CPU that is less powerful than its normal specifications. You can also be entertaining a lot of system crashes, or a dead computer and a busted CPU in a worst case scenario.

Overclocking is a risky business but the rewards are great — just make sure you do it right.

CPU Information

The central processing unit (CPU) of your computer does not refer to the entire computer box as many ordinary users mistakenly call it. But it is a small piece of hardware that is also called the processor or microprocessor that reads, converts, and disposes majority of the instructions inside your computer. It is also often referred to as the “brain” or the ‘think tank” of your computer. That is why buying a CPU should be well advised and thought of to maximize computer use.

4.  How to know the Speed of Your Desktop Computer CPU

 

 

The speed of your desktop computer CPU or central processing unit is typically measured in gigahertz (GHz). Old computers may only have several hundred megahertz (MHz). This number indicates how fast your desktop computer can load and run programs and applications.

There are several locations that list down your desktop computer’s CPU speed. On a machine running Windows XP, you can check the speed of your desktop computer CPU at any one of these four locations:

* System Properties
The System Properties window displays basic information about your system, including your CPU speed. To open this window, hit the Start button, right-click on the My Computer icon and select Properties in the pop-up window. Under the General tab, you can see your CPU speed as well as details about your version of Windows.

* System Information
To access the System Information utility screen, click the Start button, select Run, type Msinfo32 and hit Enter. Your desktop computer CPU speed is listed in the Processor line along with your CPU model. You can also open the System Information utility screen via the Help and Support Center. Simply hit the Start button and click on the following options in this order:

(1) Help and Support
(2) What’s new in Windows XP
(3) Tools, Advanced System Information
(4) View detailed system information (Msinfor32.exe)

* Device Manager
The Device Manager contains a list of all PC computer hardware devices installed in your system. To open the Device Manager, click the Start button, select Run, type Devmgmt.msc and hit Enter. To see the speed of your desktop computer CPU, expand the Processors option.

* DirectX Diagnostic Tool
You can also view your desktop computer CPU speed using the DirectX Diagnostic Tool. To access this tool, click the Start button, select Run, type DXDiag and hit Enter. Under the System tab, you will find your CPU speed and other system information.

There are other locations where you can see the speed of your desktop computer CPU, but these four locations are among the easiest to access.

 

  5. Three types of Computer Processors according to Release Date

 

If you have taken on the task of choosing each component for your PC, you will need to decide among three types of processors or central processing units (CPUs). A CPU is responsible for executing programs in your computer. If you compare a computer system to the human body system, the CPU acts as the brain of the computer while the motherboard acts as the heart.

At any given time, CPU manufacturers have three types of processors in their product offering: an economy processor, a mainstream processor, and a new product featuring a recently developed technology. The last type of processors will eventually downgrade into mainstream CPUs once a newer technology is developed and consequently displace the other types of processors down the ranks: the mainstream processors will then make up the economy processors, and the economy processors will be faced out.

* Economy Processors

Economy processors are low-performance CPUs that are usually found in budget computer systems. They can run most software applications and programs but there may be glitches in performance. If you will only be running basic office applications, an economy processor will work for you. Do not expect to watch smooth videos or play the latest PC games with your economy processor. For better performance and faster response times, get yourself a mainstream CPU.

* Mainstream Processors

Mainstream processors are the current line of CPUs used in normal, everyday computers. This type of processors have been around for a while and are tried, trusted, and tested. If you want a top-of-the-line processor without dabbling in the risky world of new technology, a mainstream processor is the right CPU for you. Among the three types of CPUs, mainstream processors offer you the best value for your money.

* New Releases

Processors that feature a new, breakthrough technology usually have more features and faster processing power than mainstream CPUs. These processors come at hefty price tags, however, so prepare to pay a premium if you are planning to get one. In addition, there is always the chance for new technology to be riddled with bugs and problems. Purchasing the latest CPUs can be risky so take steps to protect your investment by getting a decent warranty coverage and period.

Over time and with the development of newer and better technology, the latest processors will become mainstream products and their prices will dive accordingly. For the practical person who wants to play safe, a mainstream processor is a logical purchase to make.

  6. Buying a Computer Processor: Six Factors to Consider

 

When you are building a computer from scratch, or upgrading a particularly old computer model, you will have to buy a central processing unit (CPU), otherwise known as a processor or a microprocessor. Many consumers base their choices on the CPU speed alone but there are other factors that affect a CPU’s performance.

Check out these six factors before you purchase your CPU and make a more informed decision.

* CPU speed

Also known as the clock speed, the CPU speed determines the rate at which your computer can run programs. Old CPUs have clock speeds of up to several hundred megahertz (MHz) but today’s fast CPUs have far exceeded those speeds. Now, CPU speeds are usually expressed in gigahertz (GHz). A fast CPU is better than a slow CPU.

* Dual vs. Quad Core

If you run a lot of applications simultaneously, you should consider getting a quad core processor as opposed to a dual core processor. If you are purely into gaming, stick with a dual core processor as most games are not supported by quad core technology. This may change in the future.

* Bandwidth

The bandwidth defines the amount of data your PC can run in one instruction. Bandwidth is measured in bits. Most computers run on 32-bit processors. More modern computers use 64-bit chips. For the moment, some software are only compatible with 32-bit processors. Microsoft’s Windows Vista is an advanced operating system that runs better on 64-bit processors.

* Front Side Bus (FSB) speed

The Front Side Bus permits the relay of information between the CPU and the other parts of the computer. FSB speed is the pace at which data is transmitted between the CPU and the rest of the computer system.

* Level 2 (L2) Cache

CPUs have their own memory — the L2 cache — where data can be stored and accessed immediately. If the L2 cache is full, computers will have to store temporary data in the RAM. The CPU will then need to procure data from the RAM and wait for the data to be transmitted. A large L2 cache is very helpful in running multimedia applications. The L2 cache can be between 128K to 1MB.

* Compatibility

Motherboards only support certain CPUs. Make sure that your CPU is compatible with your motherboard chipset. For example, you need a motherboard with an LGA 775 socket in order to attach an LGA 775 CPU.

Consider these factors carefully when selecting your CPU and choose one that will meet your needs.