Chapter 5. Processors

The Truth About Processor Performance

Processor Characteristics

Processor Types

CPU Coolers

Processor Upgrade Considerations

Replacing the Processor

Troubleshooting Processors

The processor, also called the CPU (Central Processing Unit), is the engine that drives the system. Replacing the processor requires some careful research to ensure that the new processor is compatible with the current motherboard and other system components, but a processor swap, properly done, can be one of the highest bang-for-the-buck upgrades you can make. In some cases, you can double or even triple overall system performance by spending $50 to $100 on a new processor. In this chapter, we tell you everything you need to know to choose and install a replacement processor.