Danilo, a dual-core CPU has two processors sharing a Die and memory
interface. For all intents and purposes it is a dual-CPU SMP system and
the OS will see the seperate processors and treat it as such. This isn't
just a scheduling hack like Hyperthreading (Which also shows up as 2
CPU's to the OS, but is actually one with the Scheduler faking it, for
mild but noticable speed boosts)
Windows XP Pro will be aware of both cores and will use them as
individual processors. XP Pro is fully SMP aware, not sure about Home,
but I think even Home can do 2 CPU or Core SMP.
-Adam
danilo wrote:
It seems to me, that no one has yet replied to the original question:
"should he change his CPU"
From my point of view: no.
do you use some unix?
if not you'll not use the 64bits.
Even if you use it, it's not always true that a 64 bits COU is faster
than a 32 one, in some cases it's slower.
Then: His "dual core Athlon" is not a dual processor machine, it's a
processor with two cores (I suppose they'll work in parallel doing
some operation.)
Don't know if windows can use it, though, but I think it's something
the OS doesn't even know it is there.
bottom line: save your money for some trip.
;)
Danilo.
