Dual Core/64Bit Processors

[SpicyDuck]

What is the advantage of having such a processor? I'm in the market for a laptop and all the ones I'm interested in have the new super duper Intel Core 2 Duo processor included.

Doesn't this just mean that:

1) I need a 64bit Version of XP? and;
2) Drivers are a bitch to find?

I've been out of the whole hardware thing for about two years now, so if someone could point out some real advantages now, not in the future, that would be bloody marvellous.

I use Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Browse the Intarw3b and have the occassional bash at Counter Strike: Source. As well as various music/graphic programs like Fruity Loops and such. So, basically, an all round entertainment machina!

 

[Jokester]

From my limited experience of Photoshop, dual core makes a big difference to performance. You can still use 32bit Windows with it, the main reason that 64bit hasn't taken off is the lack of driver support etc.

Jokester

 

[kitten]

No...

All processors (Intel/AMD of the last few years) will run linux, Win XP and a variety of other Oses. you do not NEED a 64bit os to use these chips.

regards
kitten

 

[UKTopGun]

I dont find many drivers a pain to find. I've been on 64bit windows for about 6months now and havent really had any problems with finding drivers/driver issues .

 

[tolien]

all the ones I'm interested in have the new super duper Intel Core 2 Duo processor included.

Which ones are you interested in?

I've yet to see one that has a Core 2 Duo - loads with an ordinary (non-64 bit) Core Duo though.

 

[Scottland]

Sorry to revive an old thread, does anyone know it power usage and heat output are affected by having a Core2, rather than CoreDuo in a laptop?

Cheers

 

[tolien]

Assuming you mean the Merom (i.e. T series) Core 2 Duo (as opposed to the desktop versions), they're much the same (as Anandtech found).