| Factor | How It Helps | Limitation | Measured In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clock Speed | More FDE cycles per second | Heat/power limit (~5 GHz max) | GHz (billions/second) |
| Cores | Multiple tasks simultaneously | Programs must support multi-threading | Number (2, 4, 8, etc.) |
| Cache | Reduces wait time for data | Very expensive, limited space on chip | MB (megabytes) |
This comparison covers Performance Factor Comparison within CPU Performance for GCSE Computer Science. Revise CPU Performance in 3.4 Computer Systems for GCSE Computer Science with 15 exam-style questions and 12 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 6 of 8 in this topic. Use this comparison to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for CPU Performance
What does clock speed measure in a CPU?
Describe three factors that affect CPU performance.
Quick recall flashcards
What is clock speed measured in?
GHz (gigahertz) - billions of cycles per second
Three CPU performance factors?
Clock speed, cores, cache