Multi-core processors and 32-bit operating systems.

[Baffled]

Hi,
I have recently come into the possession (at work, anyway) of a PC with triple-core processor. The spec tells me that the processor is 2.4 GHz but the systems property box tells me that it is only running at 1.15GHz.

Somebody told me that the 32-bit xp pro operating system I'm using does not see anything beyond two cores. He said that it uses all three (or four in the case of quad cores) cores but it cannot interrogate them for the systems property box details.

What's the logic behind this and is it true?

Thanks

[patio]

DLoad CPU-Z to see how the CPU is reported....
Your friend's info is innaccurate...since NT windows has supported multiple cores regardless of whether it's 32 or 64bit.

[Baffled]

Yep!

CPU-Z says 1155.4 MHz.

My "friend" was actually someone I rang up on the HP helpdesk.

I felt a little uneasy about his answer, so I decided to google the problem. I found nothing. So I thought I'd ask you guys.

Maybe I miss heard him.

Thanks

[soybean]

Does CPU-Z give any indication of a triple core processor.  I believe those are rare.

[patio]

When you get to third level HP techs they're actually very good...

[Baffled]

Does CPU-Z give any indication of a triple core processor.  I believe those are rare.

It correctly identifies the processor as an "AMD Phenom(tm) 8600B Triple-Core Processor".

By the way, The BIOS identifies it as a 2.4GHz processor. I'm confused!

Thanks

[Baffled]

When you get to third level HP techs they're actually very good...

I'm sure they are. I, in no way meant to malign the company or any individual in it. They were great when I rang them before on a different matter.

[soybean]

By the way, The BIOS identifies it as a 2.4GHz processor. I'm confused!

Have you looked in your BIOS screens for settings related to CPU speed and memory speed?  Some incorrect setting there may be throttling back your speed.  You might also try setting BIOS settings to default.