What is Dual Core Processor | Advanced Microprocessor

Dual Core Processor – The dual-core technology provides two separate execution cores on the same physical die. Each execution core has its own caches and cache controllers. It can be seen as getting two microprocessors on a single integrated circuit (IC). The processor with two separate execution cores is named a Dual Core Processor. For the complete functioning of the dual-core processor, it must be supported by an operating system and application software. The operating system must be able to recognize multithreading, and application software must have Simultaneous Multithreading Technology (SMT) written into its code. An example of SMT – aware software is ADOBE photoshop.

Features of a Dual-Core Processor

Features of a dual-core processor are as follows:

1. In a dual-core processor, each execution core handles incoming data strings simultaneously to improve efficiency.
2. In a dual-core processor, each execution core shares the resources available; it is slower than a multiprocessor system. The multiprocessor system has more than one processor, and all processors have their own resources.
3. Since each execution core has its own cache, the operating system can handle intensive tasks in parallel.
4. The dual-core processor does not require a new motherboard but can be used in existing boards that feature the correct socket.
5. The dual-core processor technology is supported by most of the operating systems like Windows XP, Vista, etc.
6. Multithreading technology is supported by the dual-core processor.