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This CNET Asia guide to the latest desktop processors for 2008 gets you up to date on what's out there to suit your needs, to what their key features and performance are, to an introduction of the newest and fastest processor in town, the Core i7.

An overview and the usual suspects
Processors are getting ever faster and more powerful, with multi-core chips taking computing performance to new heights. We look back at how the tiny silicon wafer has made such a profound impact on the personal computer.

Match the right processor to your computing needs
Find out what type of user you are and which processor out there is right for your desktop needs in our at-a-glance table.

Basic anatomy of a computer
Before we delve into performance, here's an idea of the processor's role and how everything works together in that beige box.

Need for speed: How fast is fast?
For performance hounds who like more hard figures, we look at the latest and fastest processor right now in the market as a yardstick for speed.

Clash of the titans: 2009 and beyond
With both Intel and AMD vying to launch the fastest and greatest, performance professors are coming head-to-head in an epic battle. Get a feel of where this is heading.

Processor milestones: Then to now
Still interested? For those who like their history, here's an evolution of the processor.