Dual core, tri core, quad core etc

[27]

I have a computer with a single processor (Athlon 64 3200, Socket 754) running Windows XP Media Centre Edition.
I tend to browse the web and watch DVDs on my computer.

If I were to upgrade, what would be the point/benefit of having more than one processor?

A lot of people seem to be getting those lately but I don't see the point.

[Steve R Jones]

Dual cores and up cpu's can make multi tasking a joy....

Right now if while watching a DVD you were to open up 8 additional applications, odds are you current pc would choke and wish you'd make up your mind.....A multi core cpu would open the 8 additioal apps much better...

If you don't want or need to multi task - keep your current set up till it dies.

[carl33p]

Some applications can utilize more than a single core.
So even though its only a single application, both cores are working.

But dual core CPUs are CHEAP. You can find them for around 60$ and up.
So why wouldnt you buy atleast a dual core......

Realize that to upgrade, you'd need a new motherboard, DDR2 memory and the CPU. So it would basically be a new machine.

[JLK03F150]

If the A64 is a socket 939 you can upgrade the CPU to a A64 X2 without needing a new mobo or DDR2.

[27]

If the A64 is a socket 939 you can upgrade the CPU to a A64 X2 without needing a new mobo or DDR2.

I've corrected the original post.
THe processor is Athlon 64 3200+ on Socket 754.

[Rootstonian]

And if you're happy with what you have, then why upgrade?

The newer chips and graphics cards are oriented towards hard-core multitaskers and gamers.

For example, I have a $199 Compaq SRN something or other (it was discontinued and I found the LAST one at Best Buy!)...3.2 Ghz Celron (single core and 1.5 Gig memory). I can watch a DVD, surf the net, write a Word document, edit an Excel document and not experience any lags.

Dual core or quad core will let you do the above, plus download a 500 meg file and decode/burn a DVD movie.