Buying a Computer Processor: Six Factors to Consider

When you’re trying to build your own computer from scratch or upgrading for a higher end parts from old computer model, the first thing you should consider is your CPU (central processing unit), particularly your processor. A lot of computer users actually base their CPU speed choice alone, but there are quite a lot of factors that can affect CPU’s performance aside from its speed.



This article will give you 6 factors to look for before purchasing your CPU and help you in your upgrade decisions.



1. CPU Speed

CPU speed or also known as the clock speed, determines the rate at which your PC can run its installed programs. Old CPU models normally have clock speeds of up to hundreds of megahertz (MHz). Modern models of CPUs today have exceeded those models by far, as CPUs now run in gigahertz (GHz). Of course, fast computer is always better than the slow ones.



2.Quad Core vs Cor i3, i5, i7 series

If you’re running a lot of applications and programs in your computer simultaneously, then you should consider getting higher end processors. These processors can be pretty expensive, but they surely can help a lot in your productivity. If you’re just purely into gaming, then you can stick to medium-end processors, which significantly cost less. You can also check for other brands other than Intel, such as AMD. Just make sure you get the right counterpart of your choice.



3. Bandwidth

Bandwidth determines the amount of data your PC can run in one instruction. This is measured in bits, and most computer processors run on 32-bit processors. Modern computer processors on the other hand now run in 64-bit bandwidth speed.



4. Front Side Bus (FSB) speed

This component permits the information relay between your CPU and other parts of your computer. The speed of FSB is the pace which information is transmitted between the CPU and the rest of the system.



5. Level 2 (L2) Cache

The L2 cache is the CPU’s own memory and this is where data can be accessed and stored immediately. If L2 cache gets full, your computer will automatically store some of its data in your RAM. The CPU will then wait for that data to be transmitted from the RAM. Large L2 cache can be very helpful in running multimedia applications.



6. Compatibility

Motherboards don’t support every CPU, so when you’re assembling a computer or upgrading your old one, make sure your CPU is compatible with the motherboard chipset. You research or ask computer sales personnel for your computer compatibility concerns.