New To Current Tech Sandybridge Please Explain

[jcb33]

Hey all,

Currently have a Socket 939 CPU and thinking of upgrading, I am looking at the Intel Core i5-2300 2.80GHz, however I am very confused as to how this actually works? I have been out of the hardware game for quite a while and feel like a total novice now .

Instead of it being a 2.8Ghz CPU it has a 2.8Ghz Frequency, what is this about?

It also mentions it has a 3.1Ghz Frequency in "Turbo Mode" what is this?

Does the CPU run at 2.8Ghz or does it run a lower speeds then overclock itself when it needs to?

Also it states it has an Integrated Graphics Frequency of 850MHz what is this about, and how does it effect my graphics card?

Next it says it is 4 threads, what is a thread and how does that help me?

Finally how are these for overclocking, can you still do it easily?

Thanks guys!
Jcb33.

 

[jcb33]

Thanks DragonQ that makes it much clearer, and also makes sense, why have a 2.8Ghz CPU going when all you are doing is surfing the web!

Also Martini1991 thanks, that is a bit rubish that you can only have one model, is it actualy worth stumping up the extra for a P67 Mobo and 2500K i5?

Thanks,
Jcb33.