Multiprocessor Initialization Delay at Desktop?

In comparing two XP Pro installations, one built for a uniprocessor machine
and the other for a dual-core version of the same machine, I am experiencing
an annoying 40-60 second delay in the loading of a touchscreen driver after
the appearance of the XP Desktop on the dual-core unit, compared to a 5-10
second delay on the uniprocessor unit. In fact, both images are being tested
on the same machine, so the only difference should be the multiprocessor
support present in the second image.

Does XP require additional time to initialize multiprocessor support after
the appearance of the Desktop before completing the loading of other
peripheral drivers? Is there anything that can be done to minimize the
additional delay?