AMD Athlon XP 3200 Vs. AMD Athlon 64 3200
CPU-naming conventions can sometimes be confusing. Such is the case with the similarly named AMD Athlon 64 3200 and Athlon XP 3200 processors. While the model numbers would seem to indicate similar performance, the two processors have different capabilities, varying speeds and cannot be used in the same type of motherboard. The Athlon XP 3200 is also an older CPU; it was first released in May 2003, while the Athlon 64 3200 was released in September 2003.
64 Bit
The Athlon 64 CPU line was AMD's first consumer CPU product range to support 64-bit operating systems. Of the Athlon XP 3200 and Athlon 64 3200, only the Athlon 64 can be used with 64-bit versions of Windows. Both can be used with 32-bit Windows versions, however, which are far more common.
Speed and Cache Size
Both the Athlon XP 3200 and Athlon 64 3200 come in different variations, indicated by their processor core names. The "Clawhammer" Athlon 64 3200 is available in two versions; one that runs at 2000 MHz and has a 1024 KB cache, and another that runs at 2200 MHz and has a 512 KB cache. Other Athlon 64 3200 processor cores include "Newcastle," "Winchester," "Venice," "Manchester" and "Orleans." Examine the markings on the processor to determine which version you have. The Athlon XP 3200 is available in two versions as well; one that runs at 2200 MHz, and another at 2333 MHz. Both have a 512 KB cache size. Likewise, it is necessary to examine the processor to determine which variation you own. In terms of real-world performance, the Athlon 64 3200 is as much as 20 percent faster than the Athlon XP 3200, depending on the situation.
Dual Channel RAM
The Athlon 64 3200 supports the use of dual channel RAM, while the Athlon XP 3200 does not. With dual channel RAM, two matched memory modules can be installed in a computer, and the CPU can send data to and from these memory modules separately. This effectively doubles the memory bandwidth available to your processor.
Cool'n'Quiet
Cool'n'Quiet is a technology that made its debut in the Athlon 64 processor line and is not available in the Athlon XP 3200. Cool'n'Quiet allows the Athlon 64 3200 to throttle its speed down when it is not actively being used, reducing its temperature. In computers with cooling fans that speed up, growing louder as the system becomes hotter, this leads to a quieter computer.
Warning
If you are considering upgrading your Athlon XP 3200 to an Athlon 64 3200, be aware that the two CPUs are not directly compatible in most motherboards, and that a new motherboard will need to be purchased to complete the upgrade. Examine your motherboard carefully to confirm that the CPU socket matches the socket of the processor you intend to purchase. Athlon 64 3200 processors are available for Socket 754, Socket 939 and Socket AM2 motherboards.
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