topic Re: multicore or multi-processor in Installation & update

multicore or multi-processor

Stephen Dolbee — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 20:33:56 GMT

I know AC12 exploits multicore processors. Does anyone know if that applies to more than one processor? I have a Dell workstation that will accept another xeon processor (not multicore, of course). Will I see any speed increase by adding one? Just running one program at a time (AC12).

Thanks

Re: multicore or multi-processor

__archiben — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 21:22:58 GMT

multi-core, multi-processor and multi-threading all with regard to archicad, explained here:

http://www.archicadwiki.com/Multiprocessing

have a read and see what would be best for you.

~/archiben

Re: multicore or multi-processor

Karl Ottenstein — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 21:55:49 GMT

I second Ben's recommendation of the wiki article (which I've edited a bit from time to time).

The difference between multicore and multiprocessor is a subtle engineering and marketing lingo (not tech lingo) one. Intel decided to apply the name 'processor' to a chip that has multiple instruction processing units, yet shares a memory cache, muddying the waters IMHO.

From a user perspective, a single chip that basically contains two processors ('cores') is pretty much the same as two chips that each contain one - in either case, two processes/threads can be running concurrently.

Cheers,
Karl

Re: multicore or multi-processor

Stephen Dolbee — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 23:28:53 GMT

Thank you, Karl and Ben. I read the article and it looks as though adding a processor (in my case) will speed up AC12. I think this will be the cheapest way to go-although I would rather buy a new Mac! Maybe next year.

Steve

Re: multicore or multi-processor

Karl Ottenstein — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 01:31:37 GMT

Hi Steve,

You're welcome...but I just noticed your full signature. 1 GB memory is not enough (you need 2 GB minimum) nor is 128 MB for your display adapter (256 MB minimum recommended).

I wonder if the new chip, memory, and display adapter are a wise investment? (How much does it look like it would cost? If the display adapter has socketed VRAM, maybe you can just upgrade its memory.)

Cheers,
Karl

Re: multicore or multi-processor

Anonymous — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 02:17:04 GMT

Steve,

To add to what Karl said, my experience is that it is rarely cost effective to upgrade old equipment. I once bought a machine with one processor on a dual processor motherboard and later discovered that adding the second processor was not just a simple plug and play process. Make sure that your upgrade will be a painless process or any savings will quickly evaporate in time lost.

BTW, which generation of Xeon is it? The other specs suggest that this is an older machine of the Pentium era and not one of the new generation bearing the Xeon name.

A brand new Mac Pro can be very nicely equipped for under $3500. It might be better to make payments if necessary and get a dramatically faster machine now.

Re: multicore or multi-processor

Stress Co_ — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 05:16:12 GMT

Matthew wrote:
A brand new Mac Pro can be very nicely equipped for under $3500. It might be better to make payments if necessary and get a dramatically faster machine now.

$2,400 for a 24" iMac is another option.

Re: multicore or multi-processor

Stephen Dolbee — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 19:30:55 GMT

You may be right. Upgrades alone could be $600-$800 or more. I have been coveting the new 24" Imac once they became available with the 512 nvidia. So far, V12 works well with my current specs. The next week or two might indicate otherwise.

Thanks again,
Steve