AMD Processor (CPU) - AM3+

The CPU is basically the brains of the computer as it processes all the number crunching of the data. The faster that the processor can process calculation, the faster the computer will run. Processors are measured by their clock speed and onboard cache with larger values being faster.

AMD processors come in a range of different "sockets". The socket refers to the area where the pins on the bottom of the processor plug into the motherboard. It is important to have matching socket types on the motherboard and processor otherwise they will not fit properly.

Introduced to replace the aging AM2+ and AM3 socket along with the FM1 APU socket, the AM3+ sacrifices AMDs new graphics onboard the chip technology in favour of raw power. That is why the AM3+ processors are refered to as "Bulldozer". Processors are available in Dual core right up to Octa (8) cores!!