Benchmarks: Intel's first 45nm Penryn chip
Published: 11 Nov 2007
Memory performance
The basic result from the memory tests describes how quickly the processor can communicate with the memory subsystem. Beyond pure throughput, the time it takes to access particular memory cells is also important: the fewer CPU clock cycles required to access a memory cell (i.e. the lower the latency), the quicker the data can be read. Low latency is a particularly important factor in determining database performance, for example.
With 1,333MHz DDR3 memory, the Core 2 Extreme QX9650 has the highest throughput and lowest latency. Because of its slower 800MHz FSB, the Pentium 4 cannot keep up with the new 1,333MHz FSB Core 2 processors. The P4's NetBurst architecture also suffers besides from high latency when acessing 256-byte and 512-byte memory blocks.
PreviousRelated articles
Inside Intel's Penryn
Tech Guide Intel's new Penryn family of processors introduces a new 45nm fabrication process, along with a few architectural improvements. [12 Nov 2007]
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9650
Review The CPU market is due for a lot of upheaval over the next 12 months, so you might be wise to wait for a clearer picture before plunking down $1000 or so on Intel's new Core 2 Extreme QX9650 quad-core desktop processor. But if you want to claim ownership of the fastest multi-core CPU available today, look no further. [29 Oct 2007]
Did you find this article useful?
8 out of 11 people found this useful
Full Talkback thread
2 comments
