Processor Cache

[2048Megabytes]

I was just reading about cache in my computer manual today. I will put a summary of what I read.

Cache is a small block of high-speed memory that enhances personal computer performance by pre-loading (caching) code and data available exclusively to the processor for storing accessed data. This is a fast block of RAM (a type called static RAM rather than the Dynamic RAM used for system memory) that interacts between the processor and the system RAM using a cache controller chip. Most cache controllers have a hit rate of around 90–95%. To look at it another way, the CPU only has to read data from system memory 5–10% of the time.

It is important to have a processor that has a decent size block of L2 (Level 2) cache to enhance system performance. This is why I dislike Celeron and Turion processors as they have little or no cache incorporated into them.

 

[Bradan]

thats why amd systems usually need speedy ram.

core2duo's dont show too much dependancy on ram speed, bc they have 2/4mb cache.

check these charts out, ut3 is hugely dependant on cache sizes.

http://www.anandtech.com/video/showdoc.aspx?i=3127&p=2

 

[hermeslyre]

The capacity of the on-die SRAM is certainly a factor in certain applications, namely those which employ a certain measure of repetition with regards to read/write memory storage. Though the word is repetition, Cache is simply too small to be of any use storing the hundreds of textures, vectors, overall geometry and everything else that makes up the medium of storage. Thus it cannot be replaced by, or even compared to, regular old RAM. C2D's are better off for this large amount of dedicated cache, but this is not the reason that memory speed and latency do not equate to synchronomous performance. Neither do AMD chips benefit more from fast RAM. Cache is separate, it has it's own uses.