In a computer, the central processing unit (CPU) can be likened to the brain. The processor performs all the calculations necessary for programs to run on the computer, and if the processor has a problem, it will affect the entire operation of the computer. Thankfully, processor problems are rare. Problems that appear to be caused by the processor are generally actually caused by the configuration of the processor, which means that they can be corrected easily with the proper knowledge.
Incorrect Processor Speed
The speed of a processor is determined by the speed of the system bus (the “highway” that all data within a computer travels on) and a multiplier. For example, one processor configuration might combine a 100-MHz system bus with a multiplier of 8x, giving you an 800-MHz processor. Most processors have a locked multiplier, meaning that it cannot be changed by the user. However, if you built your own computer or had it built for you, the bus speed can most likely be changed within the motherboard’s setup software. If the bus speed is set incorrectly for your processor, the reported speed will be too low or too high. Confirm that your motherboard is running at the correct bus speed if the reported speed of your processor is incorrect. Read the rest of this entry »