XP/2K and dual processor

[12345671]

Hi, I will have a PC with Intel Xeon dual processor on ASUS PC-DL DELUXE motherboard soon. Want to know: is there any specific things to do in order to isntall XP on my new PC such as changes or setting of BIOS/XP? Or WHen I install XP , it will automatically detect 2 CPU.
IS there any specific thing to do with XP after XP is installed?

THanks for any advise

 

[jrbarnett]

If your machine is compatible with XP, the dual processors should be detected during installation. XP will only use one processor during installation, but afterwards will use two.
One point: XP Professional supports dual CPU's, XP Home only supports a single processor.

John

 

[GrowingHaze]

I have not had a Dual CPU board, so take any other advice over mine. But as far as I know (i have read quite a bit on installing XP), nothing special is involed during installation.

-Growing Haze

 

[12345671]

This PC is going to run a simulation. I am also wondering, if my simulation software(this software can utilize dual CPU according to it programmer) is running, and at the same time, I will use IE or other software(such as word, Outlook Express..) are those software able to use dual processor capability?

 

[jrbarnett]

The vast majority of applications (Word, Excel, Outlook express etc) aren't written to take advantage of dual processor operation, but if the operating system supports it, it can run different tasks on different processors.

A rough guide is to expect a roughly 70% performance improvement over an identical specification single processor system. You don't get double, because the operating system has to work out which tasks to run on which CPU for optimal operation.

John