Last Updated: May 5th, 2010
Selecting the Best Gaming Processor
This article is in reference to the central processing unit and its specific function in a gaming computer. All the information below will help you familiarize yourself with gaming correlated computer processors and supply information about core features regarding gaming processor specifications and selection.There are many variations of gaming processor on the market and making a decision is no easy task. The central processing unit is the primary component underlying a gaming computers operation, evaluating and executing sets of instructions in the form of a program. Whether at the start of a process or the finishing steps, the CPU is behind it all. There are a few performance factors that central processing unit are recongnized for, which are in detail below.
Processor Brand
To begin selecting a processor, an excellent starting point would be choosing a manufacturer. There are two primary vendors whom offer a variety of models. We recommend Intel or AMD. Among the varieties offered, its convenient to know that both companies offer processors that support platforms built with a mixture of compatible gaming hardware. This makes it much easier to select the proper gaming processor when searching the market. Other than this quality, we recommend Intel when it comes to gaming processor. AMD still produces spectacular gaming CPU, they just haven't met Intel's rising demands when it comes to current technologies. We have researched, experimented, and investigated a multitude of articles and similar resources to suggest this information. This is our opinion, and we highly support our assertion , but ultimately, its up to you to decide on a brand, depending on your personal expectations and goals. The information featured on the entirety of this page can make this decision much more clear, so please, read on if you are still somewhat confused on who to choose.
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Processor Model
After you select a gaming processor brand, you should also decide on a potential model. Models vary amongst many specifications, most notabely, clock frequency, memory frequency, cache size, processor core's, and other significant details. Gaming software is developed to handle these technologies that gaming processors utilize, so it is especially important that you understand the information regarding gaming processors and the types of games you play. The information below can help you determine a suitable model, depending on your specific preferences and needs. We suggest using Intels current 45nm and below gaming processors, particulary the Intel Core i5 750, i7 920, or i7 975 (Either Edition).
Processor Interface (Socket Relationship)
The processor interface is the interconnection between the motherboard and CPU. This feature directly relates to the brand and model of processor of your choosing. This will help you determine a suitable motherboard by matching a corrosponding processor.
The remaining information featured below pertains to eminent specifications belonging to gaming processors. We recommend you overlook this information to gain a better perspective on the type of processor that best suit you.
Clock Speed (Frequency)
The rate at which the CPU can process a request sent by the hardware or software.
To determine a processors performance capabilities, you can refer to its rated clock frequency, typically measured in Gigahertz or GHz. This is the first specification you will notice when browsing gaming processor technical information. Manufactuers calculate the given clock speed of a particular processor by testing its capabilities through a set of standards, usually by documenting the performance through a series of benchmark tests.
Choosing the highest rated processor is recommended for gaming purposes, but prices are considerable more expensive for higher clock rates. Don't be deceived by just this specification, as other qualities are important factors.
What is Intel's Turbo Boost? (Intel Based Technology)
What is Hyper-threading? (Intel Based Technology)
What is AMD's Turbo Core? (AMD based Technolgy)
Amount of "Cores"
Multi-core gaming processors are single chips that contain two or more distinctive “Core,” implemented on the same circuit. With gaming processors that posses multi-threading capabilities, each individual core can work on two tasks simultaneously, increasing processor performance, resulting in more efficient data processing.
You must include this information when in the process of making a purchase. Choosing a quad core processor using hyperthreading technology is your best bet when configuring a gaming rig.
On-Board Memory (L2 & L3 Cache)
Small, fast integrated stroage area where the processor places frequently accessed data.
Gaming processors also have there own variation of dedicated memory to hold data temporarily. Its known as the L1, L2, and L3 cache, which allows subsequent access to previously used data at a much quicker rate. This memory is used to reduce the average time to access the primary memory or secondary memory. This form of cache is smaller, faster, and more efficient than the other storage centers connected to the motherboard. Be sure to check the capacity on the L2 and L3 cache, because it has the most impact on performance for the processor, these features seen more frequently on advanced central processing unit. CPU cache is very important in determining a suitable gaming processor, so consider a larger amount for better performance.
The bus that transfers data to and from the CPU.
FSB example: 1066 Mh/z or 1333 Mh/z
The front side bus delegates communications between the various external devices and the processor itself. Typically, this also determines how fast a processor can transfer data to and from the system memory and video cards. A good suggestion would be to purchase a CPU with a FSB operating at a higher frequency, like the examples above.
Also, two newer technologies have surfaced in the recent past, which have begun to replace the FSB completely. "QuickPath Interconnect," by Intel and "HyperTransport," brought to you by AMD. Use the links below for more information.
What is QuickPath Interconnect?
What is HyperTransport?
System BIOS
As the complexity behind todays PC games expand, software updates are produced frequently. This is especially the case for a wide range of external devices and internal circuitry that connect directly to the motherboard, such as an arrangment of video cars, consisting of multiple GPUs, Motherboard BIOS, and other embedded chips that utilize firmware updates on a regular basis. Installing or re-configuring new components requires that the products current BIOS be revised if or when needed to ensure your gaming system is fully compatiable.
Why and How does this Impact Gaming?
Many components contained within a gaming computers chassis use small embedded hardware chips containing software, which control the way in which certain devices function. From basic operation to advanced activities, a motherboards BIOS play significant roles durning operation. This is definitely true for “Overclocking,” for example, in regards to the system memory, processor, or video cards for enthusiasts seeking greater performance in their gaming computers.
The important thing to remember here is to know if or when to update your motherboard or components BIOS. Understand the reason before updating your system BIOS, as this process isn't always necessary. Problems do arise, whether we want them to or not, so take precaution when attempting, unless your a computer technician of some kind.
What is Overclocking?
For the PC gaming industry, the term “Overclocking,” is used on a frequent basis. Majority of PC gamers have probably come across this specification on some occasion, but haven't a clue or idea to its meaning. In regards to begineers and novices, overclocking, at its most basic outlook, is a process of manipulating a components operating frequency, or changing the initial rating set by the manufacturer. Look at a processor for example, it is a common practice to increase the system buses operating frequency in conjunction with the amount of multipliers that were implemented for a particular model of processor, which increases processing speed. This results in a higher rated clock speed, which greatly effects PC games stability.
Heat Reduction
Cooling your CPU is as important as selecting the clock speed of your gaming processor. You need a cooling device to supply an adequate amount of heat dissipation. If you discover your CPU is suffering from this disability, you may notice a decrease in performance or ultimately your CPU could face its own demise from being to powerful. We suggest investing into an after market cooler for the sake of your processor and financial status.
Power Consumption
Modern gaming processor are requiring more power than those of past models. With this increasing demand, a higher rate of thermal production will be obvious, which will require a cooling system to disperse any additional heat. To deal with such a dilemma, we recommend purchasing an aftermarket cooling setup to ensure your system won't over heat. Aim for a lower power rating, which also helps with excess heat.
In conclusion to this information, we hope these outlines will help you make a more informaed purchase when it comes to gaming processors. For information about other significant hardware components, visit our hardware parts page.