What is Multicore Processor?

Definition – Multi core processor contains several processing units means “Cores” on one chip, and every core of processor is capable to perform their different tasks. For example, if you are doing multiple tasks at a same time like as using WhatsApp and Watching movie then one core handle WhatsApp activities and other core manage to another works such as watching movie.

Architecture of Multicore Processor

This architecture of a multicore processor allows to make communication in between entire available cores, and they split all processing tasks and then assigned them accurately. When all processing tasks are done, then this processed data from every core is sent backward to main board (Motherboard) of computer with using of single shared gateway. Due to this technique,  to improve the entire performance then single core processor.

Advantages of Multi-Core Processor

There are various benefits (pros) of Multi core processor, such as – 

Also Read: What is Dual Core Processor? Advantages, Disadvantages & Examples!!

• It is capable to perform more tasks compare to single core processors.

• It plays best performance for multi thread applications.

• It can perform multiple works in simultaneous with using of low frequency.

• It is able to process huge data compare to single core processor.

• Low consumption of energy while completing multiple tasks at a same time

• It uses Instruction level parallelism.

• It is supported by Moore’s law.

• Higher speed while using of small circuit

• Lesser capacitance

• Multiple transistors per choice

• Shorter connections

• It is used the Pipelining concept.

• You can do multiple tasks at a same time like as to find out virus with using anti-virus while playing game.

• Due to both cores are embedded on single chip, data does not take more time to reach at destination point.

• Multi-core processors occupies less space on the PCB (printed circuit board

Disadvantages of Multi-Core Processors

Here, we will spread light on the several limitations (cons) of Multi core processor, such as –

• It is difficult task to manage it than to single core processor.

• Expensive compare to single core processor.

• It contains multiple processors but it has not double speed compare to simple processor.

• Multi-core processor’s performance is totally based on, which types of tasks are performed by users.

• High power consumption.

• If, these types of processor perform more tasks then they become hotter.

• Multi-core processors take more time for processing, if other processors require linear/sequential processing.

• Faster battery drainage.

Supportive Operating Systems are:

• Microsoft Windows (Windows XP or above)

• Linux

• Mac OS X

• Most BSD-based systems

• Solaris

Examples of Multi-Core Processors

Homogeneous Multi-Core Processor – In which, all identical processor cores can support same instruction set architecture (ISA).

For example – MPC8641, Intel Core Duo

Heterogeneous Multi-Core Processor – In which, all non-identical processor cores can support

different instruction set architecture (ISA).

For example – Intel CE 2110 Media because it is comprised of Intel Xscale processor core and an Intel Micro Signal Architecture (MSA) DSP core

Applications of Multi-Core Processor

Multi core processors are used in different areas, like as – 

• High graphic games like as Overwatch, Star Wars Battlefront, and 3D games

• Computer-aided design (CAD) and Solidworks

• Multimedia applications

• Video editing softwares like as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premier and iMovie

• Scientific tool like as MATLAB

• Embedded systems like as industrial robots

• Digital Signal Processing

• Computer utility like as Excel

• Database servers and high network traffic

• Encoding

• smart phones, laptops, desktops, and tablets

Industrial Applications List :

• Machine vision
• CAD systems
• CNC machines
• Automated test systems
• Motion control