AMD Unveils New Quad-, Triple-Core Phenoms

By Michael Santo
Editor-in-Chief, RealTechNews

AMD made a host of announcements on Thursday, including officially launching their triple-core Phenom X3 line, which we wrote about earlier, as well as high-performance quad-core Phenom X4 CPUs and an energy-efficient quad-core CPU that uses only 65 watts.

Triple-Core Phenom X3

The triple-core Phenom X3 8000-series CPUs were shipped to OEMs earlier in the month. The CPUs will range from the 8400 (2.1GHz) to the 8600 (2.3GHz). According to the press release, AMD and ZT Systems will premiere the first system featuring the triple-core 8400 CPU on QVC during the Computer Shop broadcast, cheduled to air March 31 at 10 p.m. EDT.

In the press release, Russell Carlisle, VP of Marketing, ZT Systems said:

New ZT Affinity desktops featuring the AMD Phenom X3 8400 triple-core processor deliver ‘The Latest Technology for Less,’ empowering a broader range of customers to experience the performance and multi-tasking capability of true multi-core technology. The ZT Affinity 5202Zi is a perfect fit for consumers looking for a stylish, affordable compact PC with the power they need for today’s cutting-edge digital entertainment.

It should be noted that as innovative as AMD tries to make these triple-core CPUs sound, they are really quad-cores with a failed core - a good way to use something that would otherwise be wasted.

Additionally, these both use the B2 stepping which means the TLB bug is present and fixed via a BIOS patch.

Quad-Core Phenom X4

AMD also announced the high-performance Phenom X4 CPUs, with the 9550 (2.2GHz), 9650 (2.3GHz), 9750 (2.4GHz) and 9850 (2.5GHz) now available. The 9850 is available (quantity 1000) for $235 while the 9550 is $209. More pricing info is here, and a comparison of the CPUs via model number is here.

Naturally these new X4 CPUs will be free of the aforementioned TLB gu which, when patched, significantly impacts performance. Of course, when unpatched you can reach a deadlock condition.

In the press release, Mario Rivas, executive vice president, computing solutions group, AMD said:

“These new AMD Phenom X4 processors unlock even greater visual computing performance to showcase the unparalleled scalability of the AMD enthusiast platform. Based on AMD’s advanced true quad-core architecture, these processors are loaded with powerful performance features like next-generation HyperTransport™ 3.0 and energy-efficient innovations like Cool’n’Quiet™ 2.0 technology.”

Energy-Efficient Quad-Core AMD Phenom X4 9100e

Despite the obvious focus of most people on performance, for me the 9100e was the most interesting. Using a maximum of 65 watts of power, it promises quad-core goodness while maintaining a semblance of green, and while managing to keep your office temperature at a livable level.

Once again, this CPU is free of the TLB bug.

In the press release, Greg White, corporate vice president and general manager, desktop and embedded division, AMD said:

“By infusing energy–conscious design into everything related to AMD - facilities, products and alliances - AMD has emerged as a leader in establishing eco-friendly practices. The AMD Phenom X4 9100e processor is our latest endeavor to help customers reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Energy-efficient processors from AMD not only enable differentiated solutions, but are extremely conducive to smaller and sleeker form factors like Home Theater PCs that take up less space and operate quietly. PCs such as this can also help reduce energy consumption and the associated environmental impacts of traditional PC form factors.”

Meanwhile, Jim McGregor, research director and principal analyst, In-Stat said:

“Consumers and businesses alike are requesting smaller, more elegant PCs that aesthetically complement home and office environments, offer lower noise for a better computing experience, and deliver the same performance of larger systems. Energy efficient desktop processors like the AMD Phenom X4 9100e offer greater performance-per-watt over traditional desktop CPUs while addressing the growing concerns of end-users for more energy efficient and eco-friendly products.”

What do I think? Call it the kitchen sink or the whole nine yards: AMD threw about everything it could at us all on one day. It’s good to finally see something competitive from AMD, though the pendulum is still swung firmly in Intel’s direction.