AMD has launched the first commercial dual-core
processors for both servers and desktops, days after rival Intel's
launch of its first dual-core chips for desktops.
Dual-core processors are effectively two processors on a single
piece of silicon. They can almost double processing performance and
save space in the control board.
While Intel will not have dual core processors for servers ready
until the beginning of next year, AMD, which has rapidly expanded
its server business, has launched the Dual-Core AMD Opteron 800
Series processor for four- to eight-way servers.
The 200 Series processors for two-way servers and workstations
will be available in late May.
The processors deliver an up to 90% performance improvement for
application servers over single-core AMD Opterons, according to
AMD.
For desktop PC users, AMD announced the new AMD Athlon 64 X2
Dual-Core brand, which will enable true multi-tasking and better
performance.
AMD’s key OEM customers, including Sun, HP and IBM, have
showcased dual-core platforms based on AMD64 technology - the
company's 64-bit x86 computing environment.
Dell, a close ally of Intel, has not so far got behind AMD’s
dual-core programme, but has already started shipping workstations
equipped with Intel’s dual core processors.
Users can buy AMD dual-core-based servers today, and AMD expects
workstation availability this June.
HP has launched the HP ProLiant BL45p server blade and the
dual-core HP ProLiant DL585 with both systems based on the new
Dual-Core AMD Opteron processor.
IBM and Sun have also followed suit with new products.