Central Processing Unit (CPU) is an integral part of a computer system, akin to brain in the human body. The power of the CPU defines the speed and performance of the computer and the kind of applications it can render most efficiently. CPU is where all the computing takes place in a computer, including arithmetic and logical operations (ALU), as well as decoding and execution of the extracted instructions (CU). CPU is housed in a single chip in a computer system called microprocessor. This is why, terms CPU and microprocessor are used interchangeably.

Not so long ago, the microprocessors followed single core architecture to get satisfactory computing capabilities. Within a span of few years, multi-core processing technology took over owing to the shot up demands of the digital world. Dual and Quad core microprocessors are the popular multi-core processors at present that sustain the need of the hour sophistication in terms of speed and performance.

The dual and quad cores CPUs basically exploit the famous English idiom “Divide and rule”. The logic is very simple. The microprocessor makes use of multi-threading technology to get work done; wherein each calculation work received by the microprocessor is spread over multiple execution cores. Thus demanding applications like those which entail multi-media are able to sustain multiple operations concurrently without slowing-down the system.

On the same lines, the contemporary systems run many applications simultaneously, while giving a feel as if unaffected by the workload. For example, a personal computer or laptop with latest configuration generally runs anti-virus protection and security, compression, encryption, synchronization, as well as, Microsoft office application(s), Internet based applications, Multi Media player et al, concurrently without affecting the overall performance of the system. The phenomenon is termed as Multi-tasking, which has evidently enhanced both user experience and expectations manifolds.

To elucidate in technical terms, Dual and quad cores unite two or more processors, their caches and cache controllers into a single integrated circuit (chip) made up of silicon. As may be easily gathered from the names, while dual implies two processors, quad indicates four or more processors in place. Therefore, Quad cores guarantee much better user experience in terms of mobility, computing and highly engrossing multi-media. In specific, Quad cores are more effective for backend server, as the server has to detect programs running simultaneously.

Dual core processors are prevalent in the present scenario, as they more than suffice the performance requirement of movies and HTPC and expected programs in the coming year. Quad cores, however, is by all means the future rage considering the present pace of developments and ever-rising demands of the computer user community. In fact, the signs have already started showing.

On 13th Dec 2006, Intel launched its quad core processor - “Kentsfield” chip - commercially baptized “Core 2 Extreme Q6700″, sporting impressive speed of 2.66Ghz with 8MB of L2 Cache. Later on Jan 7th 2007 has followed the mainstream chip launch by Intel named Q6600 at 2.4ghz. To compliment the developments in anticipation, AMD has also announced its quad core processors to be launched soon in 2007 only.

To conclude, the ongoing chase for breakthrough performance to meet largest of computing needs at reduced operating costs and pioneering efficiency has already gained further momentum.