Characteristics
Definition
Single-Core
CPU contains only one
core to process
different operations.
This was the very first
type of CPU used back
in 1970s. Is still used in
many machines, such
as some smartphones.
Dual-Core
Dual-core CPU is a
processor with two cores in
a single IC. These cores act
as a single unit, but they
will each have their own
controller and cache,
allowing them to perform
faster than single-core
processors
Multi-Core (Quad core)
Multi-core processors
consist of consist of four
processors and are
considered to have
enhanced performance,
reduced power
consumption, and more
efficient simultaneous
processing of multiple
tasks.
Hardware overhead: 1.86x
of the single core
Hardware overhead:
2.56x of the single core
It uses less power,
thus less heat is
generated and stays
cool.
The energy consumption is
not very high in dual-core
processors and this will not
heat easily your electronic
gadgets.
Word Processing,
checking emails,
surfing the Internet,
watching videos, etc.
Flash-enabled web
browsing, audio-video
conference chatting, etc.
The energy consumption
is high for quad-core
processors and this in
turn will heat the
electronic gadgets and
will require more cooling
systems
Voice-GPS systems, multiplayer gaming, video
editing, etc.
Representation
No. of channels
(CPU cores have to
communicate with
each
other through
channels and this
uses up some of the
extra speed)
Performance
Application