Computer Processor Problems
By WilliamHanz
The processor serves as the computer's core and brain, and it is used to make all computer operations possible. However, because of the fast-changing trends in computer technology today, processors, operating systems and other corresponding software functions conflict with each other, thus causing problems serious enough to lead to a computer breakdown.
Problems
One of the most common problems with computer processors is when they do not recognize the operating systems being installed on them. There are also instances when the CPU overheats while regular tasks are taking place, which can be very alarming to owners.
Causes
In the case of the processor not being able to recognize the operating system being used, it might be due to the processor being too advanced for the current system. This is common for multi-core processors, as they do not immediately recognize Windows XP as an operating system able to be used on them, as opposed to Vista. Meanwhile, heating is caused by faster overclocking of the cores, and this means that the processor is working at full speed.
Analysis
Windows XP actually recognizes the presence of the second core in case a new processor is installed on the CPU. What should be checked, however, is if the motherboard can support two or more cores; only then can the processor use the said operating system. XP uses Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) upon its first installment, making it able to recognize the second core, but not use it. Vista, however, no longer uses HAL, so it is able to be recognized by the processor correctly.
Repair
Overheating worries can be resolved by applying two things: first is an extra cooler to run and keep the processor ventilated as it continues to operate, and the second is downloading an application called RMClock, which indicates the level of throttling of the processor, or if it had already reached the limit temperature of 118°C. Meanwhile, a HAL Updater can be used on the computer to be able to identify and use the second core. If it doesn't work, a proper re-installation of Windows XP should be done in order to make use of both cores.
Significance
Computer processors play bigger and more substantial roles in computer technology these days, not only for their speed and performance, but for their support in enabling multitasking activities that make a person's work faster and more efficient. Thus, by knowing how to fix processor issues, less time will be consumed for repair and the full performance of the processor can be utilized as well.
References
Writer Bio
Hailing from Arizona, William Hanz has been writing on a wide variety of subjects for nearly 2 years. His articles have appeared on several popular websites such as AssociatedContent.com. Hanz attended the University of Arizona majoring in computer science with a minor in English.