this is probably a dumb question, but........

[TRUSH]

What makes an AMD cpu run faster than a PENTIUM?
I'm talking about Mhz vs. Mhz here.

For example:
2200 AMD XP is rated at 1.8 Ghz (give or take a couple hz)

Put that up against a 1.8 Ghz PENTIUM 4, and I already know who will win... I just want to know why. Does the "2200" mean that it is comparible to the 2.2 Ghz P4?

and this is before overclocking either one!!!

Just trying to make up my mind on what cpu and mobo to go with and I want to make some sense out of the apples and oranges.

Thanks,
Trush

[KenKun]

Hi there ..
It is mainly because of the QuantiSpeed™ Architecture technology in XP CPUS ...

QuantiSpeed™ architecture allows the AMD Athlon™ XP processor to accomplish more work per clock cycle (IPC) when compared to other competing processors and achieve relatively high operating frequencies. Thus, QuantiSpeed architecture is the key element that provides the AMD Athlon XP processor with a "quantum leap" in real-world application performance.

The following articles should answer your question ...
Understanding Processor Performance
QuantiSpeed™ Architecture

PS.. be sure to read the white paper ..

[aznlurkerz]

sry double post.

[aznlurkerz]

i think its just AMD cpus can crunch more Numbers per cycle err...then a Pent can.

I was alwasy told this by my uncle. in terms of gears on a bike.

An AMD cpu runs like high gear ratios, big gear to drive the wheel gear, one pedel will make the wheel turn much more, thus umm.. crunching more #'s AND this is where AMD cpus creat more heat... more power to turn the pedel.

Where as on the Intel Pents run on lower gears, they do less work per cycle but there gears are switched around, more torque, constently chews #'s at lower rates but keep on going but less work to pedel = less heat.

ugh... that was weird to say but thats my 2 cents.

=P

(sp)