Hi, im new and i want to better understand dual-core processors. so, naturally I have a lot of questions about them (especially since im trying to buy a better system) So, question 1: dual core processor clock speeds, is that per core or both cores combined? Questoin 2: do the cores share bus and if so, can one core use more than half the bus while the other (running a simpler program) uses less than half? Question 3 can both computers share 1 stick of ram or do both dimm slots have to have ram? (i know its a dumb question but i want to know for sure) thats all i can think of for now. thanks

1. the core speeds are NOT combined. It's *almost* like having two separate CPUs, but not as good. 2. yes, they "share". But you have to realize that if you don't multi-task or run programs that are optimized for a dual core CPU, you'll see little or no difference over a comparable single core CPU. 3. it's not one stick per CPU core if that's what you're asking, but you'll most likely want 2 sticks of RAM to be able to take advantage of dual channel mode. FLATURIN - Hand-to-mouth goodness. It's good!

Sweet! thanks. so i guess ill try going dual core(since programs and games are being made to take advantage of both cores).And im assuming that the only reason that Core 2 Duo is more expensive than a pentium D (also dual core) is the hype and more bus speed right?

"And im assuming that the only reason that Core 2 Duo is more expensive than a pentium D (also dual core) is the hype and more bus speed right?" The C2D's performance is not hype based. It's Core microarchitecture design is much superior to the Netburst microarchitecture on which the Pentium D was based & according to Intel, the C2D potentially offers 40% more performance at 40% less power usage when compared to the Pentium D. Even AMD CPUs that have been outperforming Intel's flagship CPUs for a few years now couldn't compete with the C2Ds - that's how good these processors are. Do some research on Core vs Netburst microarchitecture.

The Core 2 Duo is totally different architecture than the Pentium D & has more processing power at a lower clock speed. Notice that the C2D E6600 (2.4Ghz) beats the P-D 960 (3.6GHz): http://www23.tomshardware.com/cpu.h... FLATURIN - Hand-to-mouth goodness. It's good!

hi if you want to buy a new powerfull PC to play games and at the same time be cheap i suggest Duo core 2 because- It has the fastest FSB Its cache capacity is more MOST importantly it is a true 64 bit chip having two cores threaded together Has excellent value for money IF YOU BUY anything else youll waste money Another good alternative are AMD chips

The new Intel Core 2 Duo offers 40% more power than Dual Core, it's truly amazing. As I have a laptop gaming won't be as powerful as a pc but check my specifications. Dell XPS M1710 Intel Core 2 Duo (Overclocked to 3.16GHz) 4096mb ddr2 sdram 512mb nvidia 7950 gtx graphics. Dell Rule! Hao.