Core 2 Duo has been one of the most important launches for Intel in quite some time, really taking back the Desktop market by storm. Yet, even when I was in Germany at a pre-launch briefing of Conroe/Core 2 Duo, Intel suggested that quad core wasn't far off either. In fact, the computer being used for the PowerPoint presentation, was in fact Kentsfield – Intel's code name for its quad core processor. Not particuarly good use of resources, but an excellent demonstration of the state of play.
November has come around, and true to Intel's word, quad-core is here. It seems like only yesterday we were marvelling at the first dual-core solutions, so to have a “quad-core” processor in front of me, seems almost surreal. However, in actuality, this isn't as much of a technological feat as you might think. Eighty cores, as demonstrated at IDF
Intel has basically taken two Core 2 Duo dies and just put them in to one package. I think Intel realises that this is cheating a little and that's why the product name is Core 2 Extreme QX6700, which apart from the subtle “Q”, doesn't mention quad anywhere in the name. This is an Extreme Edition processor, so is naturally expensive, initially priced at $999. This isn't far off the current price of an Core 2 Extreme X6800 (£643), so in comparison, it's pretty good value.
Technically speaking, the fact the cores are in the same package is irrelevant. In order for data to be communicated between the two dies, the data needs to go through the North Bridge, via the Front Side Bus. Essentially, it means the performance will be identical to having two separate processors in two separate sockets.
Intel's approach does have its benefits though. For one, by having all four cores in the same package, there is only one heatsink. Any boards that currently support Core 2 Duo, will support Kentsfield as well. In saying that, we had to update the BIOS on our Gigabyte 965P motherboard, in order to get it to boot. It also makes designing a decent motherboard a lot easier and means we can expect to see quad-core hitting the MicroATX platform
Friday, February 6, 2009
Intel Core 2 Duo 'Conroe' E6400, E6600, E6700, X6800
Without a doubt, Core 2 Duo or "Conroe" as it is code-named has been one of the most anticipated product launches in the hardware community for quite some time. Everybody has been waiting to see if Intel can claim back the performance crown and push under the rug the disappointment that was the NetBurst architecture. The string of Pentium 4/NetBurst products that Intel released had so many faults that I won't embarrass Intel by listing them. Put simply, NetBurst never reached the potential Intel believed it was capable of. However, financially it did very well as Intel is incredibly good at marketing, while AMD seems happy to sit by as the underdog expecting PC enthusiasts to do all its advertising for it.
On a number of occasions I've had the opportunity to play with Pentium M on desktop motherboards and it has been the closest experience yet to re-creating my Mendocino Celeron A overclocking days. So naturally, I have been looking to Conroe with anticipation.
Conroe is nothing like any previous Pentium 4 products. In fact, it's based on the mobile Core Duo design which is in itself based on Pentium M, which is based on Pentium 3 architecture. So Intel has actually done a bit of a U-turn.
Compared to Pentium 4, Core Duo (not to be confused with Core 2 Duo) offers low power consumption, low waste heat and high performance per clock. This is almost an exact opposite to the Pentium 4 which used so much power that the ATX specification had to be modified to add more 12V rails, and produced so much heat that they often throttled and made reaching 4GHz almost impossible. Not only this, but clock for clock performance wasn't stellar – hence the need for higher clock speeds in the first place. The resultant disparity between AMDs and Intel's clock speed was one of the primary reasons for AMD introducing PR ratings (eg. 5000+) so that consumers didn't feel like they were getting a raw deal.
AMD's biggest selling point has been its on die memory controller. This has had a lot of knock on effects (such as almost identical performance from motherboard to motherboard), but the main effect is a huge reduction in memory latency as communication is no longer passed through the north bridge. This, in combination with HyperTransport reduced the bottleneck of the front side bus. Memory performance affects system performance significantly, so Intel processors were suffering in this area a lot.
Intel's solution to this is several minor improvements to the Core architecture in order to reduce this memory latency and increase overall system performance. Most of these optimisations are quite minor, but put together add up to more than the sum of their parts. Quite frankly, how Intel has improved their architecture so much is largely irrelevant - performance figures tell us all we need to know.
Possibly the biggest improvement is an added pipeline. Where as Core Duo can complete three instructions per cycle, Core 2 Duo can now complete four which an obvious increase in processing power and efficiency.
To help reduce bottlenecks, the front side bus has been increased to 1,066MHz from the 800Mhz that all but a few of the Extreme Edition processors used. This is at a base frequency of 266MHz, quad pumped.
If it wasn't completely obvious, the "Duo" portion of the name indicates that these are dual-core processors. Unlike previous Pentium D processors, these use a shared Level 2 cache (2MB or 4MB depending on the processor). This can be dynamically allocated depending on the task being run. For instance, if running an application that isn't multi-threaded (i.e. can't take advantage of a second core), then the primary core would get the full 4MB of Level 2 cache. Having more Level 2 cache means that fewer requests need to be made to the system memory – one of the biggest causes of latency.
On a number of occasions I've had the opportunity to play with Pentium M on desktop motherboards and it has been the closest experience yet to re-creating my Mendocino Celeron A overclocking days. So naturally, I have been looking to Conroe with anticipation.
Conroe is nothing like any previous Pentium 4 products. In fact, it's based on the mobile Core Duo design which is in itself based on Pentium M, which is based on Pentium 3 architecture. So Intel has actually done a bit of a U-turn.
Compared to Pentium 4, Core Duo (not to be confused with Core 2 Duo) offers low power consumption, low waste heat and high performance per clock. This is almost an exact opposite to the Pentium 4 which used so much power that the ATX specification had to be modified to add more 12V rails, and produced so much heat that they often throttled and made reaching 4GHz almost impossible. Not only this, but clock for clock performance wasn't stellar – hence the need for higher clock speeds in the first place. The resultant disparity between AMDs and Intel's clock speed was one of the primary reasons for AMD introducing PR ratings (eg. 5000+) so that consumers didn't feel like they were getting a raw deal.
AMD's biggest selling point has been its on die memory controller. This has had a lot of knock on effects (such as almost identical performance from motherboard to motherboard), but the main effect is a huge reduction in memory latency as communication is no longer passed through the north bridge. This, in combination with HyperTransport reduced the bottleneck of the front side bus. Memory performance affects system performance significantly, so Intel processors were suffering in this area a lot.
Intel's solution to this is several minor improvements to the Core architecture in order to reduce this memory latency and increase overall system performance. Most of these optimisations are quite minor, but put together add up to more than the sum of their parts. Quite frankly, how Intel has improved their architecture so much is largely irrelevant - performance figures tell us all we need to know.
Possibly the biggest improvement is an added pipeline. Where as Core Duo can complete three instructions per cycle, Core 2 Duo can now complete four which an obvious increase in processing power and efficiency.
To help reduce bottlenecks, the front side bus has been increased to 1,066MHz from the 800Mhz that all but a few of the Extreme Edition processors used. This is at a base frequency of 266MHz, quad pumped.
If it wasn't completely obvious, the "Duo" portion of the name indicates that these are dual-core processors. Unlike previous Pentium D processors, these use a shared Level 2 cache (2MB or 4MB depending on the processor). This can be dynamically allocated depending on the task being run. For instance, if running an application that isn't multi-threaded (i.e. can't take advantage of a second core), then the primary core would get the full 4MB of Level 2 cache. Having more Level 2 cache means that fewer requests need to be made to the system memory – one of the biggest causes of latency.
Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile Processor Review - T7600
A month ago we showed you exclusive testing results (here) of the new Intel Core 2 Duo T7400 “Merom†CPU . While those initial results showed good improvements in floating point operation, a quick test revealed that battery life (here) showed that our testing platform was still not ready for prime time as the T7400 should have battery performance by design.
The Core 2 Duo T7600 we are looking at today is a production sample (read: very likely the same quality and performance you will get at a retailer) clocked at 2.33 GHz, slightly faster than the 2.16 GHz on the T7400 sample we tested a month ago. And what a difference a month makes! Intel has made the improvements where it counts -- lower power consumption which translates into better battery life!
Intel has done it! While in our early look at the T7400 showed rather poor battery performance the T7600 we have tested today, which is heading into production, has made drastic improvements. We can now say without a doubt that Intel's latest mobile CPU has nailed the holy grail in mobile computing - it performs faster, consumes less power, and generates less heat. What else is there to say besides that?
Now with power and heat issues all sorted out, there's no reason why you shouldn't consider the Core 2 Duo in your next laptop. With price points as low as $209 for the T5500 up to the T7600 at $637, there’s a Core 2 Duo mobile CPU to suit all budgets and designs. It really looks like Intel has another hit CPU on their hands and with all the design innovations from laptop vendors, it's hard not to be a little excited when looking forward. It's definitely a good time to be looking into a notebook computer and Intel has given us many reasons to with their Core 2 Duo CPUs!
So in the end, we're giving this CPU an Editor's Choice Award. The latest Core 2 Duo mobile CPU is cooler, faster, and runs longer than the older Core Duo. Not only that, it has technology improvements under the hood like a larger level 2 cache (4MB) and 64-bit extensions to support 64-bit OSes like the upcoming Windows Vista. If you've had reservations before about getting a laptop, the Core 2 Duo should have you convinced. Intel's track record in this arena is strong, and their latest CPU just solidifies their lead.
The Core 2 Duo T7600 we are looking at today is a production sample (read: very likely the same quality and performance you will get at a retailer) clocked at 2.33 GHz, slightly faster than the 2.16 GHz on the T7400 sample we tested a month ago. And what a difference a month makes! Intel has made the improvements where it counts -- lower power consumption which translates into better battery life!
Intel has done it! While in our early look at the T7400 showed rather poor battery performance the T7600 we have tested today, which is heading into production, has made drastic improvements. We can now say without a doubt that Intel's latest mobile CPU has nailed the holy grail in mobile computing - it performs faster, consumes less power, and generates less heat. What else is there to say besides that?
Now with power and heat issues all sorted out, there's no reason why you shouldn't consider the Core 2 Duo in your next laptop. With price points as low as $209 for the T5500 up to the T7600 at $637, there’s a Core 2 Duo mobile CPU to suit all budgets and designs. It really looks like Intel has another hit CPU on their hands and with all the design innovations from laptop vendors, it's hard not to be a little excited when looking forward. It's definitely a good time to be looking into a notebook computer and Intel has given us many reasons to with their Core 2 Duo CPUs!
So in the end, we're giving this CPU an Editor's Choice Award. The latest Core 2 Duo mobile CPU is cooler, faster, and runs longer than the older Core Duo. Not only that, it has technology improvements under the hood like a larger level 2 cache (4MB) and 64-bit extensions to support 64-bit OSes like the upcoming Windows Vista. If you've had reservations before about getting a laptop, the Core 2 Duo should have you convinced. Intel's track record in this arena is strong, and their latest CPU just solidifies their lead.
Intel Conroe Core 2 Duo/Extreme Processors
Intel's new Core 2 architecture builds on the foundations laid down by the Core micro-architecture which debuted on Intel's current range of dual-core mobile CPUs. Again, those unfamiliar to the new terminology may know them as Yonah.
Let's be clear about this. Intel, by moving away from NetBurst and the ultra-high clockspeeds required for the Pentium 4 series to be competitive against AMD's Athlon 64 series, has decided that a new micro-architecture was required that would provide both excellent performance and be energy-efficient, too. That, then, spelt an end to the Pentium 4 as Intel's consumer CPU of choice. It's still around, of course, but Core 2 Duo/Extreme is now positioned as Intel's performance CPU.
The following table details the range of Core 2-based CPUs Intel will be offering right off the bat, along with a Pentium Extreme Edition 965 and Athlon 64 FX-62 for reference. We'll then discuss the reasons behind why Core 2 is destined to give AMD a very hard time.
Models
Intel is initially launching Core 2 Duo at a starting speed-grade of 1.83GHz. This model, designated E6300, will be equipped with 2MiB of L2 cache and falls under the codename of Allendale. We expect Intel to release a lower-clocked version in the near future. Other than a lower clock speed and 2MiB L2 cache, the E6300 is, for all intents and purposes, architecturally identical to the rest of the Duo range; it's no Celeron model. That's especially gratifying with respect to its relatively low price.
The range is headlined by the Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800, which operates at 2.93GHz and, like Extreme Editions before, is multiplier-unlocked. Deep-walleted enthusiasts will have some fun with this one.
Let's digest the information above, particularly the architectural elements, with some insightful commentary.
Architecture analysis
Here's what makes the Core 2 Duo tick, folks.
Dual-core support
Intel Core 2 Duo-based CPUs will harness two execution cores based on a single piece of silicon. The cores communicate with the rest of the system via a single bus, which will be clocked in at 1066MHz and offer around 8.5GB/s CPU-to-MCH bandwidth. Initial Core 2 Duo CPUs will be manufactured on Intel's proven 65nm process. Projections state that 45nm production will begin in Q2 2007. Core 2 Duo supports a 14-stage execution pipeline, down (read better) from the 31 present on the Prescott-based Pentium 4.
Wide Dynamic Execution
Current x86 processors can deliver 3 instructions per clock cycle. Core 2 Duo, however, has been architected to fetch, dispatch, execute and retire up to four full instructions simultaneously, offering a 33% boost over, say, a Pentium 4 CPU. Allied to this, Core 2 Duo also supports what Intel terms Macro-Fusion, which can combine certain common x86 instructions (pairs, say, compare and conditional jump) into a single instruction (micro-op) for execution, thereby reducing overall processing time. Processing efficiency is the name of the game here.
Intel Smart Memory Access and Advanced Smart Cache
Higher-end Core 2 Duo CPUs will be equipped with 4MiB of on-chip L2 cache, minimising the need to run back to system memory for frequently used data. Unlike the present Pentium 4 micro-architecture, Core 2 Duo's two cores will share the cache amongst each other. Intel's engineering team has found that forcing the cores to individually allocate and use cache is more efficient than allotting a fixed, per-core amount. By varying the amount of cache split over the two cores Intel hopes that cache misses, the bane of modern CPUs in terms of execution efficiency, will be further reduced.
Core 2 Duo also supports what Intel terms Smart Memory Access. Put simply, and falling under the banner of memory disambiguation, it's a form of out-of-order, built-in intelligence that predicts and loads the upcoming instruction data before current store instructions have been processed. Intel has designed algorithms that can accurately predict whether a load can be processed before the store, thereby, again, potentially saving overall execution time.
Coupled with a heavily optimised cache, and thinking about it how it all fits together, the Core 2 Duo's memory access latency will be better than the present Pentium 4's, for the reasons discussed above. Intel has toyed with the idea of integrating a memory controller right on the CPU die itself, a la AMD, but reckons that Core 2 Duo's intelligent architecture masks latency well enough for it to do without. We'll put this assertion to the test in our ScienceMark 2.0 memory latency analysis.
Advanced Media Boost
Increasing efficiency with Streaming SIMD (Single Instruction Multiple Data) Extentions, Core 2 Duo CPUs are able to process a 128-bit instruction in a single clock cycle, rather than requiring the incumbent two clocks that current generations employ.
Intelligent Power Capability
Intel has designed Core 2 Duo not only to perform well on a clock-for-clock basis but also to be energy-efficient whilst doing so. This is precisely where its mobile heritage shines through. Intelligent, which seems to be the watchword for Core 2 Duo, management monitors core usage and application requirements such that it can power-gate parts of the CPU when not in use; there's little need for two cores running at full power in single-threaded applications, for example. Intel reckons that it has improved the physical requirements of power-gating enough for it to offer better power consumption than previous generations'.
Intel indicates that all Core 2 Duo models (barring Extreme) will harness a 65W TDP; half that of the Pentium Extreme Edition 965 CPU. The Core 2 Duo Extreme, however, ships with a slightly higher 75W TDP.
Further, Conroe will ship with an integrated digital thermal sensor. The sensor is embedded on the die itself and will give more-accurate readings. Incidentally, the 965 Express chipset family supports Intel Quiet System Technology, which intelligently manages processor and system fan-speeds in relation to core temperature, ensuring the fan(s) are spun just fast enough to keep the processor from throttling.
Virtualisation Technology, 64-bit processing
Virtualisation Technology offers hardware-isolated virtual partitions that allow the user to run multiple operating systems on one PC, and 64-bit processing (EMT64), along with Execute Disable Bit, is carried over from the Pentium 4 line of CPUs.
Let's be clear about this. Intel, by moving away from NetBurst and the ultra-high clockspeeds required for the Pentium 4 series to be competitive against AMD's Athlon 64 series, has decided that a new micro-architecture was required that would provide both excellent performance and be energy-efficient, too. That, then, spelt an end to the Pentium 4 as Intel's consumer CPU of choice. It's still around, of course, but Core 2 Duo/Extreme is now positioned as Intel's performance CPU.
The following table details the range of Core 2-based CPUs Intel will be offering right off the bat, along with a Pentium Extreme Edition 965 and Athlon 64 FX-62 for reference. We'll then discuss the reasons behind why Core 2 is destined to give AMD a very hard time.
Models
Intel is initially launching Core 2 Duo at a starting speed-grade of 1.83GHz. This model, designated E6300, will be equipped with 2MiB of L2 cache and falls under the codename of Allendale. We expect Intel to release a lower-clocked version in the near future. Other than a lower clock speed and 2MiB L2 cache, the E6300 is, for all intents and purposes, architecturally identical to the rest of the Duo range; it's no Celeron model. That's especially gratifying with respect to its relatively low price.
The range is headlined by the Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800, which operates at 2.93GHz and, like Extreme Editions before, is multiplier-unlocked. Deep-walleted enthusiasts will have some fun with this one.
Let's digest the information above, particularly the architectural elements, with some insightful commentary.
Architecture analysis
Here's what makes the Core 2 Duo tick, folks.
Dual-core support
Intel Core 2 Duo-based CPUs will harness two execution cores based on a single piece of silicon. The cores communicate with the rest of the system via a single bus, which will be clocked in at 1066MHz and offer around 8.5GB/s CPU-to-MCH bandwidth. Initial Core 2 Duo CPUs will be manufactured on Intel's proven 65nm process. Projections state that 45nm production will begin in Q2 2007. Core 2 Duo supports a 14-stage execution pipeline, down (read better) from the 31 present on the Prescott-based Pentium 4.
Wide Dynamic Execution
Current x86 processors can deliver 3 instructions per clock cycle. Core 2 Duo, however, has been architected to fetch, dispatch, execute and retire up to four full instructions simultaneously, offering a 33% boost over, say, a Pentium 4 CPU. Allied to this, Core 2 Duo also supports what Intel terms Macro-Fusion, which can combine certain common x86 instructions (pairs, say, compare and conditional jump) into a single instruction (micro-op) for execution, thereby reducing overall processing time. Processing efficiency is the name of the game here.
Intel Smart Memory Access and Advanced Smart Cache
Higher-end Core 2 Duo CPUs will be equipped with 4MiB of on-chip L2 cache, minimising the need to run back to system memory for frequently used data. Unlike the present Pentium 4 micro-architecture, Core 2 Duo's two cores will share the cache amongst each other. Intel's engineering team has found that forcing the cores to individually allocate and use cache is more efficient than allotting a fixed, per-core amount. By varying the amount of cache split over the two cores Intel hopes that cache misses, the bane of modern CPUs in terms of execution efficiency, will be further reduced.
Core 2 Duo also supports what Intel terms Smart Memory Access. Put simply, and falling under the banner of memory disambiguation, it's a form of out-of-order, built-in intelligence that predicts and loads the upcoming instruction data before current store instructions have been processed. Intel has designed algorithms that can accurately predict whether a load can be processed before the store, thereby, again, potentially saving overall execution time.
Coupled with a heavily optimised cache, and thinking about it how it all fits together, the Core 2 Duo's memory access latency will be better than the present Pentium 4's, for the reasons discussed above. Intel has toyed with the idea of integrating a memory controller right on the CPU die itself, a la AMD, but reckons that Core 2 Duo's intelligent architecture masks latency well enough for it to do without. We'll put this assertion to the test in our ScienceMark 2.0 memory latency analysis.
Advanced Media Boost
Increasing efficiency with Streaming SIMD (Single Instruction Multiple Data) Extentions, Core 2 Duo CPUs are able to process a 128-bit instruction in a single clock cycle, rather than requiring the incumbent two clocks that current generations employ.
Intelligent Power Capability
Intel has designed Core 2 Duo not only to perform well on a clock-for-clock basis but also to be energy-efficient whilst doing so. This is precisely where its mobile heritage shines through. Intelligent, which seems to be the watchword for Core 2 Duo, management monitors core usage and application requirements such that it can power-gate parts of the CPU when not in use; there's little need for two cores running at full power in single-threaded applications, for example. Intel reckons that it has improved the physical requirements of power-gating enough for it to offer better power consumption than previous generations'.
Intel indicates that all Core 2 Duo models (barring Extreme) will harness a 65W TDP; half that of the Pentium Extreme Edition 965 CPU. The Core 2 Duo Extreme, however, ships with a slightly higher 75W TDP.
Further, Conroe will ship with an integrated digital thermal sensor. The sensor is embedded on the die itself and will give more-accurate readings. Incidentally, the 965 Express chipset family supports Intel Quiet System Technology, which intelligently manages processor and system fan-speeds in relation to core temperature, ensuring the fan(s) are spun just fast enough to keep the processor from throttling.
Virtualisation Technology, 64-bit processing
Virtualisation Technology offers hardware-isolated virtual partitions that allow the user to run multiple operating systems on one PC, and 64-bit processing (EMT64), along with Execute Disable Bit, is carried over from the Pentium 4 line of CPUs.
Intel Core 2 (Conroe) Performance Review
It has finally happened, Intel will be putting to rest the long standing Pentium branding for their next generation of desktop microprocessors in favor of a totally new line-up simply called Core. However, this isn't just a re-branding exercise for Intel. The Core processors mark Intel's first true major revamp of microprocessor technology since their launch of the NetBurst microarchitecture with the Willamette core Pentium 4 back in the year 2000 and before you know it, we're already at Core 2. Now we're getting ahead of ourselves. Considering the major gear shift at Intel to bring about this day, let's take a brief recap on the chain of events that have lead to the development of the new Core processors.
AMD's sharp rise in market share from their hugely successful Athlon XP, Athlon 64 and dual-core Athlon 64 X2 processors in the past two years has been a rude awakening for Intel. AMD was even making inroads into the server market with their Opteron products and went as bold as to openly challenge Intel's dual-core Xeon on both performance and power consumption fronts in 2005 - a challenge which Intel chose to ignore resulting in defacto bragging rights for AMD for a period of time.
Intel of course has not been sitting idle all this while and we've seen a huge effort in promoting their next generation microarchitecture over the past year, which was basically Intel telling the world 'Wait and see, we'll be back and then we will rock!'. Intel officially unveiled the revolutionary Core microarchitecture early this year at IDF Spring 2006 in San Francisco and wet our lips with a preview of the enhanced power saving features (if not the performance) with the launch of the Core Duo (codenamed Yonah) dual-core mobile processor.
AMD's sharp rise in market share from their hugely successful Athlon XP, Athlon 64 and dual-core Athlon 64 X2 processors in the past two years has been a rude awakening for Intel. AMD was even making inroads into the server market with their Opteron products and went as bold as to openly challenge Intel's dual-core Xeon on both performance and power consumption fronts in 2005 - a challenge which Intel chose to ignore resulting in defacto bragging rights for AMD for a period of time.
Intel of course has not been sitting idle all this while and we've seen a huge effort in promoting their next generation microarchitecture over the past year, which was basically Intel telling the world 'Wait and see, we'll be back and then we will rock!'. Intel officially unveiled the revolutionary Core microarchitecture early this year at IDF Spring 2006 in San Francisco and wet our lips with a preview of the enhanced power saving features (if not the performance) with the launch of the Core Duo (codenamed Yonah) dual-core mobile processor.
Intel Core 2 Duo, 2.40 GHz E6600
Intel's launch of the Core 2 Duo has come and gone, and now, for the most part, the entire range of speeds are available in stores (the 4 big ones of course - Newegg, mWave, ZZF, and TigerDirect). Availability still seems a bit scarce at this moment, and prices will range so shop around. Of course, Intel will likely come up with product in no time, as they are known to do after launching new processors (just don't ask them to do the same with chipsets! But that's for another story).
If you're wondering why this review is late - well there are a few reasons really. First of all, Intel actually pulled back Core 2 Duo from its original release date of July 27th, I guess to get the jump on AMD's planned price drops. So really we're not that far off the original release date ;)
We also had to put together an AMD test system ourselves, because AMD often has problems producing enough CPU's to meet the demands of OEM, retail, and media. I set out to put together the fastest AM2 system I could buy today (ridiculously expensive FX chips notwithstanding). That ended up being an Athlon64 X2 4600+. That's right - the 5000+ and 4800+ parts were nowhere to be seen, even though they launched last May. The retail channel is just starting to get 4800+'s in stock, so the 5000+'s can't be far behind. To round out our AMD system, we went with an Asus motherboard based on NVIDIA's 570 Ultra chipset. Unfortunately I ended up buying my X2 just before the price drops occured... So I paid about $550 USD, while they are now going for around $255-260. Ugh.
Finally, I had major issues with the beta BIOS on the Intel test motherboard. For some reason, the board would no longer POST either of the Core 2 processors after having a Pentium-D installed in it. No matter what I tried, it wouldn't do it. I only had one option - wait for Core 2 to officially launch, and use a production BIOS. Finally, all testing is complete, and I'm ready to report about Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Extreme.
The codenames for the new desktop parts are "Conroe" "Conroe XE" and the lesser-known "Allendale". For the retail market, they are called "Core 2 Duo" and "Core 2 Extreme", even though this is actually their first CPU based on Core, desktop or otherwise.
Conroe and Allendale are identical, except Allendale comes with half the amount of L2 cache - 2MB instead of 4MB. Conroe XE is identical to Conroe, except that it has an unlocked multiplier.
The two Allendale based processors are the E6300, which runs at 1.86 GHz, and the E6400, which runs at 2.13 GHz. The Conroe parts are the E6600 and E6700 which run at 2.40 GHz and 2.67 GHz respectively. Finally, there is the Conroe XE based Core 2 Extreme, which is identical to all other Conroe processors in every way - it's just clocked higher and has an unlocked multiplier. The top Core 2 Extreme (and Intel's top processor of all) is the X6800, which runs at 2.93 GHz.
All of the aforementioned processors run on a quad-pumped 1066 MHz FSB.
The mobile part is codenamed "Merom" and was quietly launched alongside Conroe. It too is called "Core 2 Duo" and "Core 2 Solo" in retail; frontside bus is limited to 667 MHz on these low power-using parts, rather than 1066 MHz. Confused? No kidding.
If you're wondering why this review is late - well there are a few reasons really. First of all, Intel actually pulled back Core 2 Duo from its original release date of July 27th, I guess to get the jump on AMD's planned price drops. So really we're not that far off the original release date ;)
We also had to put together an AMD test system ourselves, because AMD often has problems producing enough CPU's to meet the demands of OEM, retail, and media. I set out to put together the fastest AM2 system I could buy today (ridiculously expensive FX chips notwithstanding). That ended up being an Athlon64 X2 4600+. That's right - the 5000+ and 4800+ parts were nowhere to be seen, even though they launched last May. The retail channel is just starting to get 4800+'s in stock, so the 5000+'s can't be far behind. To round out our AMD system, we went with an Asus motherboard based on NVIDIA's 570 Ultra chipset. Unfortunately I ended up buying my X2 just before the price drops occured... So I paid about $550 USD, while they are now going for around $255-260. Ugh.
Finally, I had major issues with the beta BIOS on the Intel test motherboard. For some reason, the board would no longer POST either of the Core 2 processors after having a Pentium-D installed in it. No matter what I tried, it wouldn't do it. I only had one option - wait for Core 2 to officially launch, and use a production BIOS. Finally, all testing is complete, and I'm ready to report about Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Extreme.
The codenames for the new desktop parts are "Conroe" "Conroe XE" and the lesser-known "Allendale". For the retail market, they are called "Core 2 Duo" and "Core 2 Extreme", even though this is actually their first CPU based on Core, desktop or otherwise.
Conroe and Allendale are identical, except Allendale comes with half the amount of L2 cache - 2MB instead of 4MB. Conroe XE is identical to Conroe, except that it has an unlocked multiplier.
The two Allendale based processors are the E6300, which runs at 1.86 GHz, and the E6400, which runs at 2.13 GHz. The Conroe parts are the E6600 and E6700 which run at 2.40 GHz and 2.67 GHz respectively. Finally, there is the Conroe XE based Core 2 Extreme, which is identical to all other Conroe processors in every way - it's just clocked higher and has an unlocked multiplier. The top Core 2 Extreme (and Intel's top processor of all) is the X6800, which runs at 2.93 GHz.
All of the aforementioned processors run on a quad-pumped 1066 MHz FSB.
The mobile part is codenamed "Merom" and was quietly launched alongside Conroe. It too is called "Core 2 Duo" and "Core 2 Solo" in retail; frontside bus is limited to 667 MHz on these low power-using parts, rather than 1066 MHz. Confused? No kidding.
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6700 - Quad-Core Power for Desktops
Intel's Core 2 Duo processor family bearing the new Core microarchitecture broke new grounds when it was launched a scant four months ago, catapulting Intel back into the driver's seat of the microprocessor industry, a 'show hand' that arch-rival AMD has yet to deliver a response till date. Despite the rave journalistic buzz however, the Core 2 Duo is still a dual-core processor and dual-core processors themselves aren't anything new (Intel's Pentium D and AMD's Athlon 64 X2 have been around since early 2005), not to mention that three and a half months is hardly enough time for the Core 2 Duo to really penetrate the retail channels.
The news that have been most anticipated within tech circles however, has been the talk of Intel's upcoming quad-core part, codenamed Kentsfield. During the recent IDF Fall 2006, Intel confirmed the launch and we were even given the opportunity for a hands-on performance preview, which you can check out here . Today, Kentsfield becomes official. Quad-core processing has indeed arrived in the consumer space as Intel increases its leadership position even more.
The official name of the Kentsfield series will be Core 2 Quad in the mainstream segment and the Core 2 Extreme in the enthusiast segment. The first Kentsfield processor to be available at launch will start with the top-end 2.66GHz Core 2 Extreme QX6700 priced at US$999, which is the same as the 2.93GHz Core 2 Extreme X6800 during its launch. The QX6700 will be followed by the mainstream 2.4GHz Core 2 Quad Q6600, tentatively set to be released first quarter of 2007 and rumored to be priced around US$851. Whether the corresponding Core 2 Duo processors will receive price cuts remain to be seen as nothing has been announced yet.
This naming convention is based on the fact that the Kentsfield processors are in the same generation as the dual-core Conroe and Allendale - hence, 'Core 2' designates the processor series and the 'Duo' or 'Quad' suffix designating the number of cores. What may be initially confusing however is that both Conroe and Kentsfield enthusiast parts will be named Core 2 Extreme. For these processors, the CPU model numbers give away its pedigree. Those with a 'Q' prefix are quad-core models, eg. Core 2 Extreme QX6700
The news that have been most anticipated within tech circles however, has been the talk of Intel's upcoming quad-core part, codenamed Kentsfield. During the recent IDF Fall 2006, Intel confirmed the launch and we were even given the opportunity for a hands-on performance preview, which you can check out here . Today, Kentsfield becomes official. Quad-core processing has indeed arrived in the consumer space as Intel increases its leadership position even more.
The official name of the Kentsfield series will be Core 2 Quad in the mainstream segment and the Core 2 Extreme in the enthusiast segment. The first Kentsfield processor to be available at launch will start with the top-end 2.66GHz Core 2 Extreme QX6700 priced at US$999, which is the same as the 2.93GHz Core 2 Extreme X6800 during its launch. The QX6700 will be followed by the mainstream 2.4GHz Core 2 Quad Q6600, tentatively set to be released first quarter of 2007 and rumored to be priced around US$851. Whether the corresponding Core 2 Duo processors will receive price cuts remain to be seen as nothing has been announced yet.
This naming convention is based on the fact that the Kentsfield processors are in the same generation as the dual-core Conroe and Allendale - hence, 'Core 2' designates the processor series and the 'Duo' or 'Quad' suffix designating the number of cores. What may be initially confusing however is that both Conroe and Kentsfield enthusiast parts will be named Core 2 Extreme. For these processors, the CPU model numbers give away its pedigree. Those with a 'Q' prefix are quad-core models, eg. Core 2 Extreme QX6700
Intel Core 2 Duo Merom Notebooks
Every few months computer technology moves forward. Usually it’s only a small jump, such as a latest iteration of a graphics architecture, but sometimes it’s a significant one, such as the recent introduction of Intel’s Core 2 Duo desktop processor, known internally by Intel as Conroe.
Conroe’s arrival was very important as it represented the first time that Intel had brought the fruits of its new ‘Performance per Watt’ architecture direction to the desktop. Intel has been moving in this direction for some time, ever since it realised that even as its ‘NetBurst’ Pentium 4 architecture was running out of steam, its Pentium M ‘Banias’ mobile chip was going great guns.
As such it turned to the Banias design team, based in Haifa, Israel, to create an architecture that was efficient and able to scale, qualities that Pentium 4 did not possess. Last year, I was lucky enough to be taken on a press tour of Intel in Israel, and met some of the team responsible for Banias, Dothan and Yonah. It was clear then that all of these were leading up to the processor released today, known then only as Merom. Though it was the last to appear on the market, Merom is actually the processor on which its desktop and workstation counterparts, Conroe (Core 2 Duo) and Woodcrest (Xeon) are based.
This design architecture, which Spode talked about here is known as the Core architecture. Rather confusingly though, Core Duo, which is Yonah, is not actually Core architecture – it’s was essentially a dual-core version of Pentium M.
Core architecture, with its various improvements and enhancements, actually begins with the Core 2 Duo, which in Conroe guise, has already appeared on the desktop.
The reason for this is that Intel previous mobile chip, Yonah or Core Duo was so good that it didn’t need to rush it to market. However, Intel definitely needed to bring Conroe to the market as for a long time been lagging behind AMD.
So how does the mobile version of Core 2 Duo (Merom) actually differ from the desktop version (Conroe)? Actually, the differences are relatively minor – though as it’s essentially the same chip that’s not really surprising. This means that it sports all the excellent features that made Conroe so powerful. This includes the Wide Dynamic Execution consisting of an increase in pipelines from three to four and the use of the Macro-Fusion technique that combines common pairs of instructions into a single instruction. Perhaps most crucially Merom employs all of the power management saving tricks that the Core architecture is designed for, such as putting many parts of the CPU to sleep when they’re not required. This enables it to have a lower Thermal Design Power (TDP) figure of 34W, compared to 65W for Conroe, which is the essential figure for a mobile CPU. Other differences are that Merom runs at a lower Front Side Bus of 667MHz, (versus 1,066MHz).
Conroe’s arrival was very important as it represented the first time that Intel had brought the fruits of its new ‘Performance per Watt’ architecture direction to the desktop. Intel has been moving in this direction for some time, ever since it realised that even as its ‘NetBurst’ Pentium 4 architecture was running out of steam, its Pentium M ‘Banias’ mobile chip was going great guns.
As such it turned to the Banias design team, based in Haifa, Israel, to create an architecture that was efficient and able to scale, qualities that Pentium 4 did not possess. Last year, I was lucky enough to be taken on a press tour of Intel in Israel, and met some of the team responsible for Banias, Dothan and Yonah. It was clear then that all of these were leading up to the processor released today, known then only as Merom. Though it was the last to appear on the market, Merom is actually the processor on which its desktop and workstation counterparts, Conroe (Core 2 Duo) and Woodcrest (Xeon) are based.
This design architecture, which Spode talked about here is known as the Core architecture. Rather confusingly though, Core Duo, which is Yonah, is not actually Core architecture – it’s was essentially a dual-core version of Pentium M.
Core architecture, with its various improvements and enhancements, actually begins with the Core 2 Duo, which in Conroe guise, has already appeared on the desktop.
The reason for this is that Intel previous mobile chip, Yonah or Core Duo was so good that it didn’t need to rush it to market. However, Intel definitely needed to bring Conroe to the market as for a long time been lagging behind AMD.
So how does the mobile version of Core 2 Duo (Merom) actually differ from the desktop version (Conroe)? Actually, the differences are relatively minor – though as it’s essentially the same chip that’s not really surprising. This means that it sports all the excellent features that made Conroe so powerful. This includes the Wide Dynamic Execution consisting of an increase in pipelines from three to four and the use of the Macro-Fusion technique that combines common pairs of instructions into a single instruction. Perhaps most crucially Merom employs all of the power management saving tricks that the Core architecture is designed for, such as putting many parts of the CPU to sleep when they’re not required. This enables it to have a lower Thermal Design Power (TDP) figure of 34W, compared to 65W for Conroe, which is the essential figure for a mobile CPU. Other differences are that Merom runs at a lower Front Side Bus of 667MHz, (versus 1,066MHz).
Intel Tips Its 3G Processor Strategy
CANNES, France - Intel Corp. disclosed details of its next-generation communications processor strategy, code-named Hermon, which is targeted at single- and dual-mode wideband CDMA phones.
Intel executives said Wednesday (Feb. 25) at the 3GSM World Congress here that the single-chip device incorporates an XScale MSA architecture processor, on-chip StrataFlash memory, W-CDMA and GPRS baseband logic on a 0.13-micron process.
Intel plans to announce full details of the product in the next six months, and expects both mass-market cellphones and smartphones to appear by 2005. Reference designs based on Hermon are expected by the end of the year.
"The fully scalable system-on-chip device incorporates a number of key mobile technologies, such as our Quick Capture and Clear Connect solutions, which will allow handsets to track multiple basestations, thus leading to fewer dropped calls, yet draws on our existing XScale communications processor," said Gadi Singer, vice president and co-general manager of Intel's cellular and hand held group.
The 3G platform will use TTPCom's protocol and applications software, extending the relationship between the companies on GSM/GPRS designs. The first customer for the new communications processor is expected to be Taiwanese group Asustek, which is developing a range of smartphones based on Hermon and Intel's Bulverde applications processor.
Singer said Bulverde has been sampled by numerous phone designers, some who will be introducing devices by the end of 2004. He would not say whether any are top mobile phone manufacturers.
Paul Otellini, Intel's president and COO, hinted at Hermon development during a keynote address here. He did unveil a three-radio reference design for cellphones offering 802.11b, Bluetooth and GSM/GPRS capabilities. It will run on the latest version of the Bulverde applications processor, wireless MMX and an XScale communications processor. The phone will support leading operating systems, including Microsoft, Symbian, Linux, Java and PalmOS.
It will also play MP3 music files with PC-quality sound, and incorporates a 1.3-megapixel digital camera.
Otellini reiterated Intel's commitment to the wireless broadband, particularly emerging WiMax technology, and said the company will have silicon for the expanded wireless network by the end of the year. Basestations and customer premises equipment are expected to be available by the middle of 2005.
He also forecast in a glitzy demononstation here that WiMax capability would be built into notebook computers by 2006, followed by handsets by 2007. The huge bandwidth increase provided by WiMax, compared to Wi-Fi, over much greater distances could set up a battle with operators of 3G networks.
Intel's mantra remains that "the wireless industry is evolving from a web of independent networks into a single, integrated wireless network with multiple standards, where no single standard will be sufficient."
Intel executives said Wednesday (Feb. 25) at the 3GSM World Congress here that the single-chip device incorporates an XScale MSA architecture processor, on-chip StrataFlash memory, W-CDMA and GPRS baseband logic on a 0.13-micron process.
Intel plans to announce full details of the product in the next six months, and expects both mass-market cellphones and smartphones to appear by 2005. Reference designs based on Hermon are expected by the end of the year.
"The fully scalable system-on-chip device incorporates a number of key mobile technologies, such as our Quick Capture and Clear Connect solutions, which will allow handsets to track multiple basestations, thus leading to fewer dropped calls, yet draws on our existing XScale communications processor," said Gadi Singer, vice president and co-general manager of Intel's cellular and hand held group.
The 3G platform will use TTPCom's protocol and applications software, extending the relationship between the companies on GSM/GPRS designs. The first customer for the new communications processor is expected to be Taiwanese group Asustek, which is developing a range of smartphones based on Hermon and Intel's Bulverde applications processor.
Singer said Bulverde has been sampled by numerous phone designers, some who will be introducing devices by the end of 2004. He would not say whether any are top mobile phone manufacturers.
Paul Otellini, Intel's president and COO, hinted at Hermon development during a keynote address here. He did unveil a three-radio reference design for cellphones offering 802.11b, Bluetooth and GSM/GPRS capabilities. It will run on the latest version of the Bulverde applications processor, wireless MMX and an XScale communications processor. The phone will support leading operating systems, including Microsoft, Symbian, Linux, Java and PalmOS.
It will also play MP3 music files with PC-quality sound, and incorporates a 1.3-megapixel digital camera.
Otellini reiterated Intel's commitment to the wireless broadband, particularly emerging WiMax technology, and said the company will have silicon for the expanded wireless network by the end of the year. Basestations and customer premises equipment are expected to be available by the middle of 2005.
He also forecast in a glitzy demononstation here that WiMax capability would be built into notebook computers by 2006, followed by handsets by 2007. The huge bandwidth increase provided by WiMax, compared to Wi-Fi, over much greater distances could set up a battle with operators of 3G networks.
Intel's mantra remains that "the wireless industry is evolving from a web of independent networks into a single, integrated wireless network with multiple standards, where no single standard will be sufficient."
Intel Buys Mobile Linux Developer OpenedHand
OpenedHand developers will join Intel's Open Source Technology Center, where they will focus on optimizing the Moblin software stack for Atom. Moblin, which stands for mobile Linux, is an open source project established by Intel. The initiative seeks to produce tools and software for MIDs, TV set-top boxes, personal navigation devices, personal media players, and ultra-light laptops.
"Intel will continue supporting open source projects currently led by OpenedHand staff, such as Clutter and Matchbox projects, and, in most cases, will accelerate these projects as they become an integral part of Moblin," OpenedHand said Tuesday in announcing the acquisition. Clutter is a graphics library for creating hardware-accelerated user interfaces, and Matchbox is a window manager used in Internet devices, such as Nokia's Internet Tablet and FIC's Neo smartphone.
Intel is not alone in targeting MIDs, smartphones, and other emerging devices for accessing the Web. Graphics chipmaker Nvidia is competing with Tegra, an all-in-one integrated graphics systems on a chip. Nvidia is particularly interested in the smartphone market, which is also being targeted by Texas Instruments, Qualcomm, Broadcom, and Samsung Electronics.
Intel's major competitor for manufacturers building mini-notebooks, ultra-light devices with screens less than 10 inches, is VIA Technologies, which makes the Nano CPU. Nvidia is working with Via to combine Nano with Tegra into a smartphone hardware platform.
Intel has said that demand for its Atom processor is "better than anticipated." Demand, in fact, is so good that media reports have said that the chipmaker is falling behind in meeting orders. Intel, however, has not acknowledged any problems. "Demand is very good, better than expected, and we're working with our customers to meet that demand," a spokesman told InformationWeek.
"Intel will continue supporting open source projects currently led by OpenedHand staff, such as Clutter and Matchbox projects, and, in most cases, will accelerate these projects as they become an integral part of Moblin," OpenedHand said Tuesday in announcing the acquisition. Clutter is a graphics library for creating hardware-accelerated user interfaces, and Matchbox is a window manager used in Internet devices, such as Nokia's Internet Tablet and FIC's Neo smartphone.
Intel is not alone in targeting MIDs, smartphones, and other emerging devices for accessing the Web. Graphics chipmaker Nvidia is competing with Tegra, an all-in-one integrated graphics systems on a chip. Nvidia is particularly interested in the smartphone market, which is also being targeted by Texas Instruments, Qualcomm, Broadcom, and Samsung Electronics.
Intel's major competitor for manufacturers building mini-notebooks, ultra-light devices with screens less than 10 inches, is VIA Technologies, which makes the Nano CPU. Nvidia is working with Via to combine Nano with Tegra into a smartphone hardware platform.
Intel has said that demand for its Atom processor is "better than anticipated." Demand, in fact, is so good that media reports have said that the chipmaker is falling behind in meeting orders. Intel, however, has not acknowledged any problems. "Demand is very good, better than expected, and we're working with our customers to meet that demand," a spokesman told InformationWeek.
Intel Details Larrabee Processor Architecture
Intel describes aspects of its Larrabee microarchitecture, including the design of an x86 processing core developed specifically for the chip. The chip maker explains why its engineers believe the Larrabee processor will usher in a new era of parallel software programming.
Intel is offering the first in-depth look at its "Larrabee" processor and the chip maker plans to offer the microprocessor to address a range of graphics and visual applications using x86 processing cores instead of more traditional GPUs.
In a paper, "Larrabee: A Many-Core x86 Architecture for Visual Computing," Intel engineers offered several new details about the forthcoming Larrabee graphics processing unit, including the fact that Intel derived the instructional pipeline for the individual x86 cores from the company's Pentium chip.
In addition, Larrabee will support Microsoft's DirectX and OpenGL APIs, which Intel hopes will motivate a legion of software developers to create new visual- and graphics-intensive applications while taking advantage of the traditional Intel Architecture found in Larrabee's x86 cores.
The first of the Larrabee chips, which are destined for the high-end PCs that use discrete graphics cards, will not arrive until 2009 or 2010, although Intel is expected to release samples starting in late 2008. Larrabee is described as a "many-core" processor, which means that it's likely to contain 10 or more individual x86 CPU cores within the silicon package. (Intel's upcoming Nehalem processors are likely to have up to eight cores.)
While Intel engineers have spoken about Larrabee and its place within high-performance computing, the paper makes clear that the first of the Larrabee processors are designed for the gaming market, where the chip will compete against high-end GPU offerings from ATI—owned by Advanced Micro Devices—and Nvidia. The fact that Intel is supporting the industry-standard DirectX and OpenGL APIs shows that the chip maker is looking to encourage developers to create new gaming applications on its architecture.
Intel is also betting that Larrabee will usher in a new era of parallel computing by offering developers a way to create highly specialized applications, such as games that require visual computing or scientific software applications that require intensive graphics capabilities, using the familiar x86 instructional set along with the C and C++ programming languages.
Nvidia, with its Tesla 10 series GPGPU (general processing GPU), is requiring developers to learn a new programming language called CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture), which allows the GPU to be programmed like a CPU.
For its part, AMD and its ATI graphics division are embracing CL, an open-source programming language. AMD is also moving toward combining the CPU and GPU on the same piece of silicon as part of its Accelerated Computing program.
In short, Intel is looking to combine the throughput capabilities of a CPU with the parallel programming abilities found in graphics processors.
"What the graphics and general data parallel application market needs is an architecture that provides the full programming abilities of a CPU, the full capabilities of a CPU together with the parallelism that is inherent in graphics processors," said Larry Seiler, a senior principal engineer with Intel. "Larrabee provides [that] and it's a practical solution to the limitations of current graphics processors."
This development could lead to a new way of looking at the capabilities of CPUs and GPUs in the commercial market.
"What stands out is that Intel views the CPU as the best GPU," said John Spooner, an analyst with Technology Business Research.
"Intel is able to apply x86 to rendering graphics rather than adopting a new or different architecture, which is clearly directly opposite of Nvidia's view of the world," Spooner added. "These companies are sure to engage in a public jousting match over whose architecture is better. The one that comes out on top, though, will be determined by performance and how well accepted the architecture is by developers."
At the heart of Larrabee is a series of simple x86 cores that are built with short instructional pipelines derived from the Pentium chip. The chip will also include what Intel describes as a vector processing units, which enhance the performance of graphics and video applications.
The Larrabee architecture will support four execution threads with each core and each thread supporting a register set, which helps with memory. In this setup, Larrabee offers a simple, efficient in-order instructional pipeline but maintains some of the benefits of an out-of-order pipeline, which helps when running applications designed to run in parallel. The short pipelines on Larrabee will allow for faster access to the Level 1 cache with each core.
All the Larrabee x86 cores—at this point Intel gave no guidance as to how many cores Larrabee will use—will share part of a large L2 cache, which will be partitioned among the different cores and allow for high bandwidth and data sharing.
The entire Larrabee chip architecture will be built on what Intel called a "bidirectional ring network," which should also allow faster communication between each of the individual x86 cores.
Intel is offering the first in-depth look at its "Larrabee" processor and the chip maker plans to offer the microprocessor to address a range of graphics and visual applications using x86 processing cores instead of more traditional GPUs.
In a paper, "Larrabee: A Many-Core x86 Architecture for Visual Computing," Intel engineers offered several new details about the forthcoming Larrabee graphics processing unit, including the fact that Intel derived the instructional pipeline for the individual x86 cores from the company's Pentium chip.
In addition, Larrabee will support Microsoft's DirectX and OpenGL APIs, which Intel hopes will motivate a legion of software developers to create new visual- and graphics-intensive applications while taking advantage of the traditional Intel Architecture found in Larrabee's x86 cores.
The first of the Larrabee chips, which are destined for the high-end PCs that use discrete graphics cards, will not arrive until 2009 or 2010, although Intel is expected to release samples starting in late 2008. Larrabee is described as a "many-core" processor, which means that it's likely to contain 10 or more individual x86 CPU cores within the silicon package. (Intel's upcoming Nehalem processors are likely to have up to eight cores.)
While Intel engineers have spoken about Larrabee and its place within high-performance computing, the paper makes clear that the first of the Larrabee processors are designed for the gaming market, where the chip will compete against high-end GPU offerings from ATI—owned by Advanced Micro Devices—and Nvidia. The fact that Intel is supporting the industry-standard DirectX and OpenGL APIs shows that the chip maker is looking to encourage developers to create new gaming applications on its architecture.
Intel is also betting that Larrabee will usher in a new era of parallel computing by offering developers a way to create highly specialized applications, such as games that require visual computing or scientific software applications that require intensive graphics capabilities, using the familiar x86 instructional set along with the C and C++ programming languages.
Nvidia, with its Tesla 10 series GPGPU (general processing GPU), is requiring developers to learn a new programming language called CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture), which allows the GPU to be programmed like a CPU.
For its part, AMD and its ATI graphics division are embracing CL, an open-source programming language. AMD is also moving toward combining the CPU and GPU on the same piece of silicon as part of its Accelerated Computing program.
In short, Intel is looking to combine the throughput capabilities of a CPU with the parallel programming abilities found in graphics processors.
"What the graphics and general data parallel application market needs is an architecture that provides the full programming abilities of a CPU, the full capabilities of a CPU together with the parallelism that is inherent in graphics processors," said Larry Seiler, a senior principal engineer with Intel. "Larrabee provides [that] and it's a practical solution to the limitations of current graphics processors."
This development could lead to a new way of looking at the capabilities of CPUs and GPUs in the commercial market.
"What stands out is that Intel views the CPU as the best GPU," said John Spooner, an analyst with Technology Business Research.
"Intel is able to apply x86 to rendering graphics rather than adopting a new or different architecture, which is clearly directly opposite of Nvidia's view of the world," Spooner added. "These companies are sure to engage in a public jousting match over whose architecture is better. The one that comes out on top, though, will be determined by performance and how well accepted the architecture is by developers."
At the heart of Larrabee is a series of simple x86 cores that are built with short instructional pipelines derived from the Pentium chip. The chip will also include what Intel describes as a vector processing units, which enhance the performance of graphics and video applications.
The Larrabee architecture will support four execution threads with each core and each thread supporting a register set, which helps with memory. In this setup, Larrabee offers a simple, efficient in-order instructional pipeline but maintains some of the benefits of an out-of-order pipeline, which helps when running applications designed to run in parallel. The short pipelines on Larrabee will allow for faster access to the Level 1 cache with each core.
All the Larrabee x86 cores—at this point Intel gave no guidance as to how many cores Larrabee will use—will share part of a large L2 cache, which will be partitioned among the different cores and allow for high bandwidth and data sharing.
The entire Larrabee chip architecture will be built on what Intel called a "bidirectional ring network," which should also allow faster communication between each of the individual x86 cores.
Intel Details Atom Processor For MIDs
It seems we can't go a week right now without Intel stumping up details of yet another even less power-hungry processor. We already saw leaks of Diamondville details, but now Intel has made them official, under the name of Atom.
Confusing matters slightly, there's actually two processor ranges, previously codenamed Diamondville and Silverthorne, that will come under the Atom banner. These are intended for sub-notebooks and Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), respectively, so will have fairly different applications.
Atom chips will, as we know, be manufactured on the 45nm hi-k metal gate technology introduced with Penryn. Those destined for MIDs will have clock speeds ranging up to 1.8GHz and TDPs from an incredible 0.6W to 2.5W with idle power consumption is touted at as low as 30mW, a far cry from the 35W power draw of similarly clocked notebook Core 2 chips.
Previously codenamed Menlow, the Centrino Atom platform, in which these CPUs will be embedded, is set to offer support for WiMAX, WiFi and 3G/HSDPA, fitting in with the moniker of being an Internet device. Hopefully this should lead to devices like the Sony Vaio VGN-UX1XN but without the limitations, such as abysmal battery life.
It will still be a while after the announcement of the processors before we see MIDs using them, which is a shame because, now we have the details, the desire to get my grubby mitts on a system has increased tenfold.
Confusing matters slightly, there's actually two processor ranges, previously codenamed Diamondville and Silverthorne, that will come under the Atom banner. These are intended for sub-notebooks and Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), respectively, so will have fairly different applications.
Atom chips will, as we know, be manufactured on the 45nm hi-k metal gate technology introduced with Penryn. Those destined for MIDs will have clock speeds ranging up to 1.8GHz and TDPs from an incredible 0.6W to 2.5W with idle power consumption is touted at as low as 30mW, a far cry from the 35W power draw of similarly clocked notebook Core 2 chips.
Previously codenamed Menlow, the Centrino Atom platform, in which these CPUs will be embedded, is set to offer support for WiMAX, WiFi and 3G/HSDPA, fitting in with the moniker of being an Internet device. Hopefully this should lead to devices like the Sony Vaio VGN-UX1XN but without the limitations, such as abysmal battery life.
It will still be a while after the announcement of the processors before we see MIDs using them, which is a shame because, now we have the details, the desire to get my grubby mitts on a system has increased tenfold.
AMD64 3200+ Venice S939
As said in the intro, AMD recently released their Venice and San Diego core processors. The primary differences between the two, is that the Venice uses 512Kb L2 Cache, and the San Diego uses 1024Kb L2 Cache. Venice is for the casual mainstream computer user, while San Diego will be, or hopes to be, the hardcore gamers core of choice.
Both Cores, use a 90nanometer process, as all the current AMD chips being produced will. AMD recently got rid of the 130nm cores, and because of this, the potential of the chip is better.. lower temperatures and higher overlocks. Even the Winchester core at 90nm, couldn't handle higher frequencies, which held some overclockers back, and this is where Venice could make it's mark.
So what does the Venice bring to the table, to make it better than the Winnie? AMD added the SSE3 Instruction set to both the Venice and San Diego, which should help out in some areas, primarily media and development, but not gaming. It should be mentioned that this is not a simple copy/paste, so to speak, of the SSE3 instructions from the Prescott Intel chips. Prescott has a few more instructions in the set, that are used towards their Hyper-Threading technology. So if you were considering an Intel due to the Hyper-Threading factor, then the addition of SSE3 to the Venice/Sandy shouldn't sway you.
Another feature added, is a better memory controller. An issue with the controller on the Winchester chips, was that if you used 4 Single-Sided sticks of memory, it would force you to use 2T timings, which held back performance. This has been fixed on the new cores.
Lastly, another thing that makes the Venice so great, is that it runs using a relatively low 66W of power, meaning lower temps, and higher overclocks. In the review, I am going to benchmark the stock chip, and then see how far I can push the overclock. The Venice comes in four flavours, the 3000+, 3200+, 3500+ and finally the 3800+. I'll be taking a look at the 3200+, which comes in at a stock speed of 2.0GHz.
Processor
AMD 64 3200+ S939 "Venice" Core (512k L2 Cache)
Motherboard
DFI LanParty NF4 UT Ultra-D
Power Supply
Ultra X-Finity 600W
Memory
512 * 2 Samsung DDR400 (3-3-3-8)
Hard Disks
200GB * 2 Western Digital 8MB Cache160GB Western Digital 8MB Cache
Sound Card
Phillips PSC724 Ultimate Edge 5.1
Video Card
BFG 6800 GT OC 256MB
Etcetera
Running Windows XP Professional with SP2.Video drivers are Omega Drivers 1.6693 versions.Using 5/10 BIOS flash.
Both Cores, use a 90nanometer process, as all the current AMD chips being produced will. AMD recently got rid of the 130nm cores, and because of this, the potential of the chip is better.. lower temperatures and higher overlocks. Even the Winchester core at 90nm, couldn't handle higher frequencies, which held some overclockers back, and this is where Venice could make it's mark.
So what does the Venice bring to the table, to make it better than the Winnie? AMD added the SSE3 Instruction set to both the Venice and San Diego, which should help out in some areas, primarily media and development, but not gaming. It should be mentioned that this is not a simple copy/paste, so to speak, of the SSE3 instructions from the Prescott Intel chips. Prescott has a few more instructions in the set, that are used towards their Hyper-Threading technology. So if you were considering an Intel due to the Hyper-Threading factor, then the addition of SSE3 to the Venice/Sandy shouldn't sway you.
Another feature added, is a better memory controller. An issue with the controller on the Winchester chips, was that if you used 4 Single-Sided sticks of memory, it would force you to use 2T timings, which held back performance. This has been fixed on the new cores.
Lastly, another thing that makes the Venice so great, is that it runs using a relatively low 66W of power, meaning lower temps, and higher overclocks. In the review, I am going to benchmark the stock chip, and then see how far I can push the overclock. The Venice comes in four flavours, the 3000+, 3200+, 3500+ and finally the 3800+. I'll be taking a look at the 3200+, which comes in at a stock speed of 2.0GHz.
Processor
AMD 64 3200+ S939 "Venice" Core (512k L2 Cache)
Motherboard
DFI LanParty NF4 UT Ultra-D
Power Supply
Ultra X-Finity 600W
Memory
512 * 2 Samsung DDR400 (3-3-3-8)
Hard Disks
200GB * 2 Western Digital 8MB Cache160GB Western Digital 8MB Cache
Sound Card
Phillips PSC724 Ultimate Edge 5.1
Video Card
BFG 6800 GT OC 256MB
Etcetera
Running Windows XP Professional with SP2.Video drivers are Omega Drivers 1.6693 versions.Using 5/10 BIOS flash.
AMD64 3700+ San Diego S939 2.2GHz
Here at the Techgage labs, on the border of sanity, we have a brand new Athlon 3700+ San Diego in for review. If you have found your way to our little corner of the 'net, I am certain that AMD needs no introduction. But, for all of you techies out there that have been living under a rock or in Siberia, AMD is the premiere gaming CPU of choice for anyone "in the know".
This is a debatable statement at best so through out the review, we will see what this chip has to offer. I have owned a 3500+ Winchester core before this. so I am excited to see what the difference an extra 512 of L2 will help out. It's been a while since we have taken a look at a CPU so let's get into the meat of this review.
About Advanced Micro Devices
Founded in 1969 and based in Sunnyvale, California, AMD provides microprocessors, Flash memory devices, and silicon-based solutions for our customers in the communications and computer industries worldwide.
However, our focus goes beyond integrated circuits and transistors. AMD is committed to helping our customers — and their customers — take advantage of the phenomenal capacity of silicon to add value and help differentiate their offerings. To that end, AMD products are developed with customer needs always in mind and not for the sake of innovation alone. Stated more plainly, it means that AMD exists to provide real solutions for real customer problems that exist in the real world today.
Earlier this year, AMD released their Venice and San Diego core processors. The primary differences between the two, is that the Venice uses 512Kb L2 Cache, and the San Diego uses 1024Kb L2 Cache. Venice is for the casual mainstream computer user, while San Diego could be the hardcore gamers core of choice.
Both Cores, use a 90nanometer process, as all the current AMD chips being produced will. AMD recently got rid of the 130nm cores, and because of this, the potential of the chip is better.. lower temperatures and higher overclocks. Even the Winchester core at 90nm, couldn't handle higher frequencies, which held some overclockers back, and this is where Venice could make it's mark.
So what does the Venice bring to the table, to make it better than the Winnie? AMD added the SSE3 Instruction set to both the Venice and San Diego, which should help out in some areas, primarily media and development, but not gaming. It should be mentioned that this is not a simple copy/paste, so to speak, of the SSE3 instructions from the Prescott Intel chips. Prescott has a few more instructions in the set, that are used towards their Hyper-Threading technology. So if you were considering an Intel due to the Hyper-Threading factor, then the addition of SSE3 to the Venice/Sandy shouldn't sway you.
This is a debatable statement at best so through out the review, we will see what this chip has to offer. I have owned a 3500+ Winchester core before this. so I am excited to see what the difference an extra 512 of L2 will help out. It's been a while since we have taken a look at a CPU so let's get into the meat of this review.
About Advanced Micro Devices
Founded in 1969 and based in Sunnyvale, California, AMD provides microprocessors, Flash memory devices, and silicon-based solutions for our customers in the communications and computer industries worldwide.
However, our focus goes beyond integrated circuits and transistors. AMD is committed to helping our customers — and their customers — take advantage of the phenomenal capacity of silicon to add value and help differentiate their offerings. To that end, AMD products are developed with customer needs always in mind and not for the sake of innovation alone. Stated more plainly, it means that AMD exists to provide real solutions for real customer problems that exist in the real world today.
Earlier this year, AMD released their Venice and San Diego core processors. The primary differences between the two, is that the Venice uses 512Kb L2 Cache, and the San Diego uses 1024Kb L2 Cache. Venice is for the casual mainstream computer user, while San Diego could be the hardcore gamers core of choice.
Both Cores, use a 90nanometer process, as all the current AMD chips being produced will. AMD recently got rid of the 130nm cores, and because of this, the potential of the chip is better.. lower temperatures and higher overclocks. Even the Winchester core at 90nm, couldn't handle higher frequencies, which held some overclockers back, and this is where Venice could make it's mark.
So what does the Venice bring to the table, to make it better than the Winnie? AMD added the SSE3 Instruction set to both the Venice and San Diego, which should help out in some areas, primarily media and development, but not gaming. It should be mentioned that this is not a simple copy/paste, so to speak, of the SSE3 instructions from the Prescott Intel chips. Prescott has a few more instructions in the set, that are used towards their Hyper-Threading technology. So if you were considering an Intel due to the Hyper-Threading factor, then the addition of SSE3 to the Venice/Sandy shouldn't sway you.
AMD Introduces New Prices for Athlon Processors
IBM announced the completion of its approximately US $845 million (approximately 5 billion Swedish Kronor) tender offer for the shares of Telelogic, a provider of software to develop technical systems and enterprise architecture. The tender offer, announced on June 11, 2007, was finalized after IBM obtained acceptance from 98.7% of stock ownership in Telelogic as well as satisfaction of other conditions of the offer, including necessary worldwide regulatory approvals. Headquartered in Malmo, Sweden, and Irvine, California, Telelogic has more than 8,000 customers worldwide and operations in 22 countries around the world. In India, Telelogic has a headcount of approx. 300 who will be integrated into IBM India towards the end of 2008. According to Ken King, vice president and Telelogic integration executive, IBM Software, with the acquisition closure, Telelogic now becomes 'an IBM company'. "The integrated product and technology roadmap will illustrate incremental value to our systems and IT customers across Telelogic and Rational. India has a unique advantage with this acquisition as we gain not just from the business perspective, but also from the strong skill-set that Telelogic has here." Together, IBM, Telelogic, and business partners will now be able to deliver high-quality systems to the market faster while reducing costs. Customers will benefit from the combined technologies and services of both companies, providing them a wide range of software and system development capabilities, along with support from a worldwide sales and services organization. "Telelogic is an important element of our software and systems development and delivery strategy," said Dr. Daniel Sabbah, general manager, IBM Rational Software. "Software is at the heart of embedded devices and systems. This IBM technology has important implications for society." Telelogic will report into the IBM Rational Software unit. In consonance with IBM's software strategy, Telelogic clients' and partners' investments in existing IBM and Telelogic technologies will be preserved, allowing customers to take advantage of the broader set of capabilities without the need to replace existing systems, the company said. Since 1995, IBM has invested more than $18 billion on public acquisitions, making it the most acquisitive company in the technology industry, based on volume of transactions. Other strategic acquisitions in support of IBM s software and systems development and delivery strategy include BuildForge (build and release management), SystemCorp (project and portfolio management) and Watchfire (Web application security).
Managing Data Storage by Support Services
Data Storage exponential data growth, you need to find efficient, cost-effective ways to make the most of your critical storage infrastructure. And with the complexity of today's storage technology and the ever-mounting demands on your internal resources, it's tougher than ever to do it alone. With the technology storage industry at the cusp of strong growth, as never before, data storage environment poses multiple challenges that directly impacts bottom-line business results.
More data is captured and stored by businesses now than ever before. A typical business today stores 10 times more data than in 2000. Gartner report estimates that storage requirements will have increased by a factor of 30 by 2012. Challenges like soaring storage costs. Tighter regulations governing data retention, access and privacy. Data center power, cooling and space limitations. Scarce technical expertise. The constant threat of natural and manmade disasters. The complexities of managing multivendor storage solutions are present. This can be addressed by end-to-end support services, Multivendor hardware/software support, Integrated remote support technologies, Comprehensive installation and implementation support lastly a full suite of flexible, scalable services to boost ongoing storage performance and availability. Companies are moving from Direct Attached Storage (DAS) to networked storage with the adoption of Fiber Channel (FC) Storage Area Network (SAN) technologies. The major benefits associated with this move are: higher availability, scalability, minimal interference with LAN traffic, increased management efficiency and utilization levels of about 90%, resulting in lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and higher Return on Investment (ROI). As the economy improved from the recession of 2000, and the demand for storing increasingly large volumes of data, companies are beginning to spend on IT infrastructure and storage. In this way, businesses need to start rethinking the way they go about storing their data in order to enhance analytics, improve business processes and give themselves the best possible competitive advantage.
More data is captured and stored by businesses now than ever before. A typical business today stores 10 times more data than in 2000. Gartner report estimates that storage requirements will have increased by a factor of 30 by 2012. Challenges like soaring storage costs. Tighter regulations governing data retention, access and privacy. Data center power, cooling and space limitations. Scarce technical expertise. The constant threat of natural and manmade disasters. The complexities of managing multivendor storage solutions are present. This can be addressed by end-to-end support services, Multivendor hardware/software support, Integrated remote support technologies, Comprehensive installation and implementation support lastly a full suite of flexible, scalable services to boost ongoing storage performance and availability. Companies are moving from Direct Attached Storage (DAS) to networked storage with the adoption of Fiber Channel (FC) Storage Area Network (SAN) technologies. The major benefits associated with this move are: higher availability, scalability, minimal interference with LAN traffic, increased management efficiency and utilization levels of about 90%, resulting in lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and higher Return on Investment (ROI). As the economy improved from the recession of 2000, and the demand for storing increasingly large volumes of data, companies are beginning to spend on IT infrastructure and storage. In this way, businesses need to start rethinking the way they go about storing their data in order to enhance analytics, improve business processes and give themselves the best possible competitive advantage.
Intel G35 Express Chipset Processors
The Intel® G35 Express Chipset continues the Intel® chipset legacy and extends it to new levels with purpose-built capabilities designed specifically to address the key needs of the enthusiast home user.The Intel G35 Express Chipset continues the Intel chipset legacy and extends it to new levels with purpose-built capabilities designed specifically to address the key needs of the home user. With advancements in graphics, video, and system responsiveness, the Intel G35 Express Chipset allows your PC to be the center of home computing, communication, and entertainment.Desktop PC platforms based on the Intel G35 Express Chipset, combined with either the Intel Core 2 Duo or Intel Core 2 Quad processor, and with support for next-generation 45nm Intel® Core™2 processor family, deliver innovative capabilities and usages for digital home consumers and new levels of 3D and media performance while enabling lower power and quieter systems.
Intel Launches Quad-core Products for Servers
To provide energy efficient performance, coupled with enhanced virtualization capabilities, Intel India has unveiled quad-core processors, which are specifically designed for Multi-Processor (MP) servers.
The 6 Quad-core Xeon 7300 series processors can deliver more performance per watt over the company's previous generation dual-core products. Commenting on the new launch, R. Ravindran, director (sales) of Intel South Asia said, "With the Xeon 7300 series, Intel is delivering new levels of performance and performance per watt, and driving the Intel Core microarchitecture into such innovative systems as 4 socket, 16 core blades that use less energy than our older models." For channel customers looking for complete platforms based on these new processors, Intel offers the Intel S7000FC4UR server platform. Many software vendors are also supporting Xeon 7300, which include BEA, Microsoft, Oracle, SAP, and VMware. The 7300 series and Intel 7300 chipset offer up to four times the memory capacity of Intel's previous MP platforms. With the introduction of the Xeon 7300, users can pool their Intel Core microarchitecture based server resources, whether they are single-, dual- , or multi-processor based, into a server infrastructure that can improve usage models like failover, load balancing, disaster recovery, or server maintenance. More than 50 system manufacturers, including HCL, Wipro, Dell, Egenera, Fujitsu, Fujitsu-Siemens, Hitachi, HP, IBM, NEC, Sun, Supermicro, and Unisys, will announce the Xeon 7300 series processors. Depending on the speeds, features, and amount ordered the pricing of these new quad-core processors ranges from USD 856 to USD 2,301 in quantities of 1,000.
The 6 Quad-core Xeon 7300 series processors can deliver more performance per watt over the company's previous generation dual-core products. Commenting on the new launch, R. Ravindran, director (sales) of Intel South Asia said, "With the Xeon 7300 series, Intel is delivering new levels of performance and performance per watt, and driving the Intel Core microarchitecture into such innovative systems as 4 socket, 16 core blades that use less energy than our older models." For channel customers looking for complete platforms based on these new processors, Intel offers the Intel S7000FC4UR server platform. Many software vendors are also supporting Xeon 7300, which include BEA, Microsoft, Oracle, SAP, and VMware. The 7300 series and Intel 7300 chipset offer up to four times the memory capacity of Intel's previous MP platforms. With the introduction of the Xeon 7300, users can pool their Intel Core microarchitecture based server resources, whether they are single-, dual- , or multi-processor based, into a server infrastructure that can improve usage models like failover, load balancing, disaster recovery, or server maintenance. More than 50 system manufacturers, including HCL, Wipro, Dell, Egenera, Fujitsu, Fujitsu-Siemens, Hitachi, HP, IBM, NEC, Sun, Supermicro, and Unisys, will announce the Xeon 7300 series processors. Depending on the speeds, features, and amount ordered the pricing of these new quad-core processors ranges from USD 856 to USD 2,301 in quantities of 1,000.
AMD Intros GPU
AMD has introduced the ATI Radeon E2400, a high-performance graphic processing unit to deliver the latest 2D, 3D and multimedia graphics performance.
The new graphics technology is backed by a planned five-year availability and long-term support offering reliability for a variety of applications on operating systems featuring Microsoft DirectX 10 and OpenGL 2.0. "With the input of major original equipment manufacturers and platform developers, we have designed the ATI Radeon E2400 from the start to deliver high graphics performance while meeting the unique requirements of the embedded market," said Richard Jaenicke, director of embedded graphics for AMD. Built on 65nm process technology, the ATI Radeon E2400 includes AMD's Unified Shader Architecture with support for Microsoft DirectX 10, allowing customers to develop advanced content for many applications. The device package incorporates 128MB of on-chip GDDR3 memory for graphic-intensive applications, eliminating the space, effort, and cost of external memory designs. For designs that require a low profile solution in space-constrained environments, AMD offers the ATI Radeon E2400 MXM-II module based on the open standard MXM-II specifications. The ATI Radeon E2400 is scheduled to ship this month in production quantities. AMD will showcase the product both at Embedded World 2008 (February 26-28, 2008) in Nuremberg, Germany, and at Embedded Systems Conference Silicon (April 14-18, 2008) in San Jose, California.
The new graphics technology is backed by a planned five-year availability and long-term support offering reliability for a variety of applications on operating systems featuring Microsoft DirectX 10 and OpenGL 2.0. "With the input of major original equipment manufacturers and platform developers, we have designed the ATI Radeon E2400 from the start to deliver high graphics performance while meeting the unique requirements of the embedded market," said Richard Jaenicke, director of embedded graphics for AMD. Built on 65nm process technology, the ATI Radeon E2400 includes AMD's Unified Shader Architecture with support for Microsoft DirectX 10, allowing customers to develop advanced content for many applications. The device package incorporates 128MB of on-chip GDDR3 memory for graphic-intensive applications, eliminating the space, effort, and cost of external memory designs. For designs that require a low profile solution in space-constrained environments, AMD offers the ATI Radeon E2400 MXM-II module based on the open standard MXM-II specifications. The ATI Radeon E2400 is scheduled to ship this month in production quantities. AMD will showcase the product both at Embedded World 2008 (February 26-28, 2008) in Nuremberg, Germany, and at Embedded Systems Conference Silicon (April 14-18, 2008) in San Jose, California.
Intel Pentium Extreme Edition
Get advanced performance for high-end gaming and the most demanding power applications. The Intel Pentium 4 Processor with HT Technology Extreme Edition is designed specifically for those who know their technology and crave high performance.FeaturesHyper-Threading Technology Streaming SIMD extensions 3 Intel Extended Memory 64 Technology Execute Disable Bit capability 1MB L2 Advanced Transfer Cache for each core Specifications General Product Type Processor Expansion / Connectivity Compatible Slots 1 x processor - LGA775 Socket Miscellaneous Package Type Intel Boxed Processor Type / Form Factor Intel Pentium Extreme Edition Dual-Core 840 Processor Qty 1 Clock Speed 3.2 GHz Bus Speed 800 MHz Processor Socket LGA775 Socket Cache Memory Type Advanced Transfer Cache Installed Size L2 cache - 2 MB What is a PowerLeap adapter? This device from PowerLeap allows socket 7 and socket 5 motherboards to have clock multiplier speeds up to 6.0x, even if you original motherboard has a maximum multiplier that is lower. Additionally, this adapter will also provide you with the proper split voltages for all AMD, CYRIX and Intel MMX processor to work on your system. Once the Powerleap adapter is installed you are only limited by your BIOS.Because my original motherboard does not support AMD Processors or 6.0x clock multipliers I needed to use the PowerLeap adapter in my tests. But as you can see below this combination has given me a dramatic increase in speed over my original Pentium 133 that came with my system.
Intel 5000P Chipset Processors
Intel's new server chipsets for the Dual-Core Intel® Xeon® processor 5000 series enable Intel® dual-processor (DP) balanced server platforms that are efficient, dependable, and responsive.
Intel® dual-core processor-based platforms help businesses better utilize assets with effective virtualization and increase density in their data centers through optimized power and thermal features.
With the Intel 5000P or Intel 5000V chipset and Dual-Core Intel Xeon processor 5000 series, system designers can offer new platforms that help IT services move ahead with increased productivity, higher throughput, and faster time-to-solution.
The Intel® 5000P chipset, the next generation Intel® dual-processor (DP) server chipset technology, offers increased graphics performance, reduced power consumption, and improved platform reliability and system manageability
Intel® dual-core processor-based platforms help businesses better utilize assets with effective virtualization and increase density in their data centers through optimized power and thermal features.
With the Intel 5000P or Intel 5000V chipset and Dual-Core Intel Xeon processor 5000 series, system designers can offer new platforms that help IT services move ahead with increased productivity, higher throughput, and faster time-to-solution.
The Intel® 5000P chipset, the next generation Intel® dual-processor (DP) server chipset technology, offers increased graphics performance, reduced power consumption, and improved platform reliability and system manageability
Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor
When more is better-with four processing cores the Intel Core 2 Extreme processor delivers unrivaled¹ performance for the latest, greatest generation of multi-threaded games and multimedia apps.Now with a new version based on Intel's cutting edge 45nm technology utilizing hafnium-infused circuitry to deliver even greater performance and power efficiency. The Intel® Core™2 Extreme processor QX9770 running at 3.2 GHz delivers the best possible experience for today's most demanding users.
12 MB of total L2 cache
1600 MHz front side bus
Intel® Network Processors
Built on a high-performance fully programmable architecture, Intel network processors offer the speed, flexibility, and ease-of-use/reuse you need to accelerate time-to-market, extend time-in-market, and to enable a broad range of services from the customer premises to the core of the network. Network processors optimized for home, small-to-medium enterprise, and networked embedded applications. Flexible wire-speed processing for OC-3 to OC-12 multiservice network applications.
The Intel® IXC1100 control plane processor extends the benefits of Intel XScale® technology, including its rich set of development tools, to meet the processing needs of multi-service switches, VoIP media gateways, wireless infrastructure and other networking equipment.The information on this page is provided for the benefit of customers with existing designs.
12 MB of total L2 cache
1600 MHz front side bus
Intel® Network Processors
Built on a high-performance fully programmable architecture, Intel network processors offer the speed, flexibility, and ease-of-use/reuse you need to accelerate time-to-market, extend time-in-market, and to enable a broad range of services from the customer premises to the core of the network. Network processors optimized for home, small-to-medium enterprise, and networked embedded applications. Flexible wire-speed processing for OC-3 to OC-12 multiservice network applications.
The Intel® IXC1100 control plane processor extends the benefits of Intel XScale® technology, including its rich set of development tools, to meet the processing needs of multi-service switches, VoIP media gateways, wireless infrastructure and other networking equipment.The information on this page is provided for the benefit of customers with existing designs.
Intel Intros 45nm Core 2 Duo Processor
Intel Corporation recently announced the 45-nanometer (nm) Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E8400 with 7-year lifecycle support for embedded applications. To enhance security in embedded solutions, the processor also supports Intel Trusted Execution Technology. Based on Intel's high-k metal gate transistor formula and manufactured on the company's 45nm process, the E8400 processor offers increased performance by doubling transistor density and increasing cache size up to 6 MB, which is a threefold enhancement over the previous-generation Intel Core 2 Duo E6400. The E8400 processor is available to customers today and costs US $183 in quantities of 1,000. A hardware extension to the E8400 processor, Intel Trusted Execution Technology brings hardware data security to the embedded market, making the dual-core processor ideal for military and government, mid-range network security appliances, and retail applications. This security technology is designed to guard data within tamper-resistant virtualized computing environments and to protect against software attacks, viruses and other threats. The 45nm processor includes a Super Shuffle Engine that enhances Intel Streaming SIMD Extensions (SSE) algorithms optimized for graphics and multimedia processing. The Super Shuffle Engine reduces latency and improves the speed of existing SSE instructions while enabling significant gains on the latest Intel Streaming SIMD Extensions 4 (SSE4) instruction set.
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