AMD Dual Core Optimizer for Athlon X2

[WhipperSnapper]

I just "upgraded" from a single core Socket 939 Opteron 148 (11 x 250) to a dual core Athlon X2 4400 (doesn't seem to want to get above 11 x 225 without a big fight).

Is installing the AMD Dual Core Optimizer worthwhile or have people found that it actually ends up slowing things down? Would it have a negative effect on overclocking ability?

I installed it and didn't see the toolbar tray icon for switching to gaming mode, so I uninstalled it. Shouldn't I see something like that?

 

[JimiP]

I had a problem with older games when running my Athlon X2 3800+ (stock @ 2.0GHz). Once I downloaded and installed the AMD Dual-Core Optimizer, all of my troubles were gone. I didn't receive any negative effects from installing it, if anything, performance improved. I don't remember having that tray icon either, don't believe it comes with one.

 

[WhipperSnapper]

I installed it. No problems with UT3 so far.

 

[myocardia]

Like JimiP, the only problem I ever had out of using it was increased system stability. I'd recommend using it.

 

[Amaroque]

To tell you the truth, I haven't noticed any diferece either way. Never heard, or noticed anything bad though. So, I just leave it installed.

 

[StormRider]

Do these utilities work with Vista?

 

[jonmcc33]

Just set an affinity for older apps.

 

[WhipperSnapper]

What is an Affinity and how do I set it? Also, is there any sort of way to specify which programs should run on which core(s)?