After demoing its multi-core server and workstation at LinuxWorld last week, on February 23 AMD demonstrated a dual-core AMD Athlon 64 processor, manufactured on 90nm technology at the company’s Sunnyvale facilities. AMD has now publicly showcased its broad portfolio of multi-core AMD64 technology, ranging from server and workstation to client systems.
Future dual-core AMD Athlon 64 processor-based systems will offer businesses and consumers compatibility, productivity and performance, as well as a seamless upgrade path from single-core platforms. End users will be able to enjoy enhanced performance with PCs based on the superior thermal design of dual-core AMD Athlon 64 processors. Dual-core AMD64 technology enables advanced multi-tasking capabilities and outstanding multimedia performance. For example, users will be able to burn CDs or DVDs, while simultaneously unzipping compressed files, and encoding high-resolution videos, all while running robust security applications in the background.
Because AMD uses existing manufacturing processes to produce dual-core AMD64 processors, the power envelope for AMD dual-core processors is designed to fit current sockets and power infrastructures. Additionally, this level of compatibility eliminates the need for costly platform redesigns, and this enables a more cost-effective dual-core technology transition for customers. AMD’s industry-standard, dual-core processors are a natural extension of AMD64 technology with Direct Connect Architecture. The Direct Connect Architecture connects multiple processors, the memory controller and the I/O directly to the central processing unit, helping to eliminate the bottlenecks often inherent in a front-side bus.
AMD designed its client dual-core technology to maximize the performance benefits for users who demand advanced multi-tasking and multimedia capabilities. In addition to its plans to introduce evolutionary multi-core AMD64 client processors later this year, AMD plans to continue to scale single-core AMD Athlon 64 and AMD Athlon 64 FX processors. Enthusiasts and hard-core gamers, for example, will continue to experience maximum performance on single-core processor solutions.
To date, AMD is the only company to publicly demonstrate an x86 dual-core server solution. AMD has been shipping production samples of dual-core AMD Opteron processors to partners since January and plans to introduce a dual-core processor line-up for the one-to eight-socket server and workstation markets in mid-2005, based on the existing 940-pin socket. AMD plans to bring client dual-core AMD64 processors, based on the existing 939-pin socket, to the market in the second half of 2005.
Article translated by John McClure and edited by John McClure
