Server Processors
Second are the server processors. These processors are best for all different types of servers, including file servers, application servers, and web servers. There are only two recent processors out there in this category, one from AMD and one from Intel.
Processor: Intel Xeon
Release Date: Early 2002
Speed Range: 2.4 GHz (533 MHz FSB) – 3.6 (800 MHz FSB)
Price Average: $250 – $400
Pros
The newer Xeons come with 1MB of Level 2 cache, and some versions even come with 1MB of Level 3 cache. These chips are very stable and can handle lots of load for extended periods of time. Some include 64 bit instructions, while some do not. It is a very impressive chip overall.
Cons
There is a lot of variance in features on these chips and it gets somewhat confusing. The more you pay the better of all around chip you get, feature wise. Prices range from $229 – $875 depending on speed and features.
Processor: AMD Opteron
Release Date: Mid 2003
Speed Range: 1.4 GHz – 2.4 GHz (FSB Integrated into chip)
Price Average: $250 – $400
Pros
All of the Opteron chips have a Level 2 cache of 1MB and have a 64 bit instruction set. They have great stability and can handle very heavy loads.
Cons
The Opteron prices vary greatly depending on features, anywhere from $158 – $865.
Laptop Processors
Last, I will be going over most of the laptop processors on the market. Since the mobile chips are essentially the same as their desktop counterparts, I will only go into one chip that is completely made for laptops – Intel’s Centrino Technology. All the mobile chips are basically the same as their desktop counterparts, except they tend to use less voltage that helps extend battery life.
Processor: Intel Centrino Mobile Technology
Intel has tried to extend the capabilities of laptops by building a system with custom hardware that allows for optimum battery life and has built in wireless network capability. The technology has really caught on in the last year, passing skeptical critic’s expectations. For more information on Centrino Technology, check out Intel’s official site for it.
Conclusion
Well, I think I have covered all the current processors on the market, and hope I have provided you with some helpful tips so when you are ready to buy, you will know what to look for. Please understand that technology changes on a daily basis, and all information in this article was valid at the time it was published. Hopefully, you have learned something about processors while reading through it!
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