8 Things You Need to Know About the 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ Processors

1. The processor is the most important part of the computer.

Of all the components in a computer, the processor is the most important part of the computer when it comes to performance.

Think of the processor, or central processing unit (CPU), as the computer's brain. It controls everything your computer does and it’s responsible for carrying out the instructions of computer programs. Whether customers need to work with videos, photos, audio, or work files, they can expect the most benefit from their processor compared with other components.

2. There's a new microarchitecture.

The new processors are built on Intel's cutting-edge 32nm process technology that delivers yet another leap in performance and energy efficiency beyond previous generation process technologies.

The new microarchitecture also unifies processor cores, memory controller, last-level cache (LLC), andgraphics and media processing. Such tight integration enables a host of performance and efficiency improvements.

3. Smart performance has been upgraded with Turbo Boost 2.0.

The previous generation Intel® Core™ processors enable your customers to enjoy an automatic increase in processor speed when extra performance is needed.

The Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 found in the 2nd Generation processors delivers even smarter performance. It dynamically controls performance and power for both cores and graphics, thus boosting performance exactly when it's needed.

4. 4-way and 8-way multitask processing are better than ever.

The 2nd Generation processors have 4-way and 8-way multitask processing capabilities that help them run more smoothly and increase responsiveness. Multitasking is a breeze for your customers.

5. New Built-In Visuals provide a stunning and seamless visual experience.

The visual features built into the 2nd Generation processors give your customers a great experience viewing and interacting with PC visuals. The built-in visuals not only include improved Intel HD Graphics Technology; they also include Intel Quick Sync Video, Intel Clear Video HD Technology, Intel InTRU™ 3D Technology, and others. Your customers will be able to play 3D games, watch stunningly clear HD videos, share their laptop screen on their TV, convert videos quickly for their mobile phone, and more.

6. They have different logos.

The 2nd Generation processors' logos still contain the same elements as the previous generation's: a blue background with a chip design peeking out, the Intel logo, and the words "Core," "inside," and the processor modifier. However, the 2nd Generation logos have differences, the most obvious one being that the chip design has been moved from the corner to a band in the middle. The band separates "Intel inside" from the Core processor's name.

7. They have a different naming convention.

You may already have an idea of the naming convention of the previous Core processors. The 2nd Generation's scheme is slightly different. Each processor's name begins with the brand name (Intel Core), then a modifier (i3, i5, or i7), then a hyphen. After the hyphen, there's a 4-digit numerical sequence. The first digit indicates the generation (in this case, 2), while the next 3 digits indicate the SKU. Depending on the processor, the name may also have a letter suffix. Possible letter suffixes are K (to denote unlocked SKUs), S (performance optimized lifestyle SKUs), and T (power optimized lifestyle SKUs).

8. There's an Intel processor for every customer.

Intel Core i3 is smart, fast and energy-efficient. It's a good entry-level model for customers on a budget; they can use it to watch movies, make video calls, edit documents, and play casual games.

Intel Core i5 has advanced intelligence, premium technologies, and speed. It's a better choice for your customers that want to do more. Your customers will have the performance and energy efficiency when they need it most.

Intel Core i7 features support for 8-way multitasking. With ultimate intelligence and breakthrough technologies, Core i7 is best for customers who do intensive computing tasks such as extreme gaming or video editing.

                                             Differences logo Intel Core processor family among the first generation and second generation