Intel debuts quad-core processors
updated 10:15 pm EST, Tue November 14, 2006
Intel's quad-core chips
Intel today introduced new quad-core processors for both servers and high-performance desktops by delivering chips with four computing “brains” inside a single microprocessor: the Quad-Core Intel Xeon 5300 and Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor deliver "immense speed and responsiveness" for general purpose servers and workstations and for digital media creation, high-end gaming and other market segments that crave absolute performance, the company said. The new Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor 5300 series is designed for servers and provides performance boosts of up to 63 percent and offer up to 2.5 times the performance of the fastest competing processor, according to tests cited by the company. In addition, the processors offer up to 50 percent more performance within the same thermal envelope and at the same cost as the previous generation Dual-Core Intel Xeon processor 5100 series launched less than 5 months ago.
The world's largest chipmaker, said that it will offer four Intel Xeon processors at clock speeds ranging from 1.60GHz to 2.66GHz, with front side bus (FSB) speeds ranging from 1066MHz to 1333MHz, and thermal design power (TDP) of either 80 watts or a performance-optimized 120 watt option. In the first quarter next year, Intel will launch two more quad-core Xeon processors – a low-voltage version for ultra-dense deployments with a TDP of only 50 watts and a processor designed for single-socket workstations and servers.
Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor QX6700
Intel claims that its Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor QX6700, designed for high-end desktop applications, is up to 80 percent faster than the company’s current Intel Core 2 Extreme Processor X6800. It is available at 2.66GHz with a 1066MHz FSB and runs on Intel’s existing 975X Express chipset family.
The company plans to offer a mainstream quad-core processor starting in the first quarter next year under the Intel Core 2 Quad processor brand name.
Intel is offering its flagship Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor X5355 2.66GHz (1333MHz/8MB/120W) for $1172, while its Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor E5345 2.33GHz (1333MHz/8MB/80W) is $851. The slower E5320/1.86GHz ($690) and E5310/1.60GHz ($455) both feature a 1066MHz FSB and consume 80W of power. The company will offer its desktop Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor QX6700 running at 2.66GHz for $1000.
