Multi-Core Processors : Concepts and Implementations

This research paper aims at comparing two multi-core processors machines, the Intel core i7-4960X processor (Ivy Bridge E) and the AMD Phenom II X6. It starts by introducing a single-core processor machine to motivate the need for multi-core processors. Then, it explains the multi-core processor machine and the issues that rises in implementing them. It also provides a real life example machines such as TILEPro64 and Epiphany-IV 64-core 28nm Microprocessor (E64G401). The methodology that was used in comparing the Intel core i7 and AMD phenom II processors starts by explaining how processors' performance are measured, then by listing the most important and relevant technical specification to the comparison. After that, running the comparison by using different metrics such as power, the use of HyperThreading technology, the operating frequency, the use of AES encryption and decryption, and the different characteristics of cache memory such as the size, classification, and its memory controller. Finally, reaching to a roughly decision about which one of them has a better over all performance