The Intel Core 2 Quad CPU contains four processing cores.
Modern Intel CPUs (Central Processing Units) can include multiple cores on the chip. These cores let the CPU distribute tasks and perform those tasks simultaneously. The Core 2 Quad processor is different from a dual-core processor in several ways.
Core 2 Quad (C2Q) Basics
As the product's name suggests, the CPU contains four processing cores. Having twice as many cores as a dual-core processor means the C2Q is faster than a dual-core -- as long as the data being sent to the chip is designed to be handled by more than two cores.
Parallel Processing
Most software is not designed to recognize more than one processor core, although this is changing, particularly with 3D games. If the computer has more processing cores than the software knows handle, those extra cores will go unused.
Die Size and Power Consumption
Core 2 Quad processors built on a 45 nanometer (nm) die size consume up to 65 watts of power, the same as an Intel Core 2 Duo. However, comparable AMD CPUs such as the Phenom II X2 consume about 10% more power.
Heat
Since the 45nm Intel Core 2 Quad CPUs consume less electricity, they generate less heat than comparable AMD dual-core CPUs.
Price
In general, a dual-core processor will cost substantially less than a Core 2 Quad, since there is less circuitry involved with a dual-core and they are easier to manufacture.
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