Issue 40.09
A lot of things can affect how quickly your computer works. If the computer runs slower than it did when new, viruses, spyware and other programs that tie up resources are usually the main culprits. A lack of Hard Drive space (storage) or a lack of Random Access Memory (RAM) can also cause much slower operation. These problems can often be corrected by upgrading or adding to the computer and by cleaning up the software “junk” in the system (ie, programs that run in the background, but aren’t necessary)– but be careful that you don’t use programs that purport to clean up your computer, but are actually spyware or fake registry cleaners. They often do more damage than good. In general, be suspicious of free programs unless they come from reputable companies with a good track record, and don’t be afraid of programs from quality companies, even if you have to spend a few bucks. It pays off in the long run.
The other determiner of computing speed is the CPU or Central Processing Unit. This is the “Brain” of the computer. The CPU speed determines how quickly the computer can complete activities required by the various programs you are running. The advent of multi-core processors has further improved performance as each of the “cores” can be doing different things at the same time.
The processors that are currently on the market have effective speeds of anywhere from 1 Gigahertz (or 1000 megahertz) up to 3.3 Gigahertz in a quad-core (four separate processors) configuration. To compare adequately, the 1 Ghz processor passes a benchmark test with a score of 108 and the 3.3 Ghz quad-core scores about 7,000 on the same performance test. At the low end, you are usually dealing with older technology. At the upper end, you are dealing with very high price. You just have to find the mix of performance and cost that you are most comfortable with.
In general, the hierarchy of processor types, as it relates to speed, is as follows. (For more information, you can look up specific processors and their bench-test speeds at http://www.cpubenchmark.net/index.php.) From low to high – Pentium III, Atom, Celeron, Pentium 4, Pentium M, Athlon, Pentium D, Turion, AMD X2, Core 2, Core 2 Duo, Phenom, Core 2 Quad, Core I7. There are a few others out there that are not as common, and within each of these types are different speeds, usually noted as a number. Because of those speeds there is overlap in the performance ability of the types mentioned. For example, the Core 2 Duo processors run from 2 Ghz to 3.16 Ghz and the corresponding benchmarks run from 1074 to 2320. Quite a difference.
As always, stay safe and happy computing.
Shaun McCausland has been in the computer industry for 27 years (locally with Musicomp & Bits ‘N’ Bytes) and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions, you can reach him at 668-7118.