Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E Specifications
Pentium 4 HT 3.2E Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E features 1 physical cores and 2 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.
Pentium 4 HT 3.2E Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Pentium 4 HT 3.2E benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Pentium 4 HT 3.2E by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Pentium 4 HT 3.2E Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the Pentium 4 HT 3.2E processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Pentium 4 HT 3.2E's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
NetBurst Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E is built on Intel's 90 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in Pentium 4 HT 3.2E incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
NetBurst Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Pentium 4 HT 3.2E by Intel supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.
Pentium 4 HT 3.2E Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 115W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.
Intel Socket 478 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Pentium 4 HT 3.2E uses the Intel Socket 478 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.
Intel Socket 478 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the Pentium 4 HT 3.2E define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Pentium 4 HT 3.2E determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.
Intel's Pentium 4 HT 3.2E Integrated Graphics
Built-in GPU specifications
The Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E includes integrated graphics, eliminating the need for a dedicated GPU in basic computing scenarios. Integrated graphics are ideal for office productivity, video playback, and light gaming. While not designed for demanding GPU benchmarks, the iGPU in the Pentium 4 HT 3.2E provides hardware video encoding and decoding capabilities. This makes the processor suitable for compact builds, HTPCs, and systems where power efficiency is prioritized over gaming performance.
Pentium 4 HT 3.2E Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E is manufactured by Intel and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Pentium 4 HT 3.2E by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Pentium 4 HT 3.2E Benchmark Scores
No benchmark data available for this CPU.
About Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E
The Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E is a single‑core, hyper‑threaded processor built on Intel’s 90 nm Prescott microarchitecture. It runs at a base frequency of 3.20 GHz, which was a premium clock speed for desktop CPUs at the time of its February 2004 launch. With a thermal design power of 115 W, the chip demands a robust cooling solution to stay within safe temperature limits. Its single physical core can handle two simultaneous threads, giving it a modest multitasking edge over non‑HT rivals. In everyday workloads such as web browsing, office productivity, and media playback, the processor delivers smooth performance that matches its era’s expectations. However, the lack of multiple cores means it quickly falls behind modern software that scales across several execution units. Memory bandwidth is limited by the front‑side bus speeds available on Socket 478 platforms, which can become a bottleneck in data‑intensive tasks. Overall, the practical performance of this unit is respectable for legacy systems but is outclassed by any dual‑core or later architecture.
The 3.2 GHz Pentium 4 HT was capable of running most games released up to 2005 at playable frame rates when paired with a mid‑range graphics card. Titles that relied heavily on CPU calculations, such as early first‑person shooters and real‑time strategy games, felt the benefit of the high clock speed despite the single core. When the same processor is paired with modern GPUs, it becomes the limiting factor, and many current AAA games drop below 30 fps even at low settings. The lack of SIMD extensions beyond SSE2 also hinders performance in newer engines that exploit AVX or more advanced vector units. For retro gamers seeking an authentic experience on classic Windows XP builds, the single‑core 3.2 GHz model still provides enough horsepower to enjoy titles like Half‑Life 2 or Doom 3. Nonetheless, any attempt to push the chip beyond its original design envelope results in thermal throttling due to the 115 W TDP envelope. In short, while the processor can still handle legacy games, it is not a viable choice for contemporary gaming workloads.
This 90 nm Socket 478 chip originally launched at a premium price, reflecting its top‑tier clock speed within the Pentium 4 family. On the secondhand market, it can be acquired for a fraction of its launch cost, making it an attractive option for hobbyist builds that prioritize low budget over raw performance. Its high TDP translates to higher electricity usage, which can be a concern for users who run the system continuously. Compared to later dual‑core processors, the value proposition diminishes because you can often find a more efficient chip at a similar price point. However, for projects that require a known, stable platform such as legacy software testing or vintage hardware collections the processor offers a reliable reference point. The cost of compatible motherboards and DDR 266 memory can also be kept low, as these components are widely available in surplus. Ultimately, the value of the Intel Pentium 4 HT 3.2E lies in niche scenarios rather than mainstream desktop replacements.
The 115 W Prescott‑based unit uses Intel Socket 478, which limits its compatibility to motherboards designed for the early‑2000s Pentium 4 line. Users must verify that the BIOS on a chosen board supports the hyper‑threaded stepping, otherwise the system may fail to boot or run at reduced speeds. Chipset options such as the Intel 845 or 865 series provide the necessary front‑side bus and PCI‑Express alternatives, though they lack modern I/O features like SATA III or USB 3.0. Memory support is confined to DDR 266, and attempting to install faster DDR2 or DDR3 modules will not be recognized. The processor’s high power draw also necessitates a quality 350 W or higher power supply with adequate 12 V rails to maintain stability under load. Cooling solutions must be compatible with the 77 mm socket cover height; many aftermarket coolers for newer sockets will not fit without modification. When all these factors align, the CPU can be integrated into a functional retro workstation, but mismatched components will quickly expose its architectural limitations.
The AMD Equivalent of Pentium 4 HT 3.2E
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
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