What is SSE2 - computer jargon

[Geoff F]

I see that Serif Photo Plus have just launched their latest programme; so I will probably be getting a call from their sales team soon.

At first glance, I'm not totally convinced that there are any major upgrade improvements from the previous X3 version but one point I did notice in the minimum computer specs is that you must have SSE2 installed.

Now, not being fluent in computerese, I am confused. Is there an understandable description of what this entails so I can check out my machine just in case I do decide to upgrade their editing software.

[arith]

I just wouldn't bother.

[Colin Southern]

Ask, and you shall receive (you may regret asking though!)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SSE2

[Geoff F]

Thanks. Just out of interest, I will have a look to see what processor I have.

Anyway, I will need to know my full specs when I start to think about an improved Raw editor this Winter. Remember those recent posts!

And when they phone me from Serif, I can now sound a little more informed and tell them that when they include computer upgrades with their software upgrade I will think again about their latest programme.

[Colin Southern]

Hi Geoff,

If you're using an Intel CPU you should be alright, as everything since the Pentium 4 seems to have SSE2.