Multicore Processor / Computer

Multicore computers, also known as chip multiprocessors, integrate multiple Processors (cores) onto a single silicon die. Each core encompasses independent processor components like registers, ALU, pipeline hardware, and control unit, along with L1 instruction and data caches. Contemporary multicore chips may also include L2 and, in some cases, L3 cache.

The motivation behind multicore development stems from practical limits in achieving increased performance through traditional means such as higher clock frequencies and more complex processor designs. Designers have found that the most effective approach is to place multiple processors and substantial cache memory on a single chip. An example is the Intel Core i7-990X, featuring six x86 processors with dedicated L2 caches and a shared L3 cache.

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Intel enhances cache effectiveness using prefetching, where the hardware speculatively fills caches based on anticipated memory access patterns. The Core i7-990X supports external communications through a DDR3 memory controller on the chip, eliminating the need for a Front Side Bus. Additionally, the QuickPath Interconnect (QPI) enables high-speed communication among connected processor chips, operating at 6.4 GT/s with a total bandwidth of 25.6 GB/s.