MPEG encoding--100% CPU usage ??

[Resolution]

Is encoding with TMPGenc really such a load on a PC CPU ?.
Built a new PC with an AMD 4800+ dual core processor, 2 GB of RAM and a Pny GeForce 7900GT Graphics card. It's quick and performs all functions well , including gaming. When encoding from AVI or MPEG-2 to MPEG-2 , using TMPGEnc 2.5 or the express encoder from the same company, the CPU usage (BOTH CORES ) are showing 100% usage.
Capturing direct to DVD with ARCSOFT , which entails encoding to MPEG-2 also, the processor usage runs way low. Anyone know why this would be ??

[kush]

Having both cores utilized 100% while encoding is a good thing..It means the program is properly optimized to run on 2 (or more) cores. You want that - what would you rather have hypothetically, an encode that takes 4 hours, or one that takes 2 1/2-3 hours? There's not really a point in having two cores if you don't want/intend to use them (via a multi-threaded app). The Arcsoft program you mention is apparently not multi-threaded..

[Resolution]

OK , thanks. Wasn't sure if a full load was good or not.

[jagabo]

Capturing direct to DVD with ARCSOFT , which entails encoding to MPEG-2 also, the processor usage runs way low. Anyone know why this would be ??

Realtime encoders take lots of shortcuts to minimize CPU usage so as not to drop frames while capturing. That's why they don't do as good a job as the "slow" encoders.