Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is shipping its triple-core Phenom X3 processors alongside new versions of its existing quad-core Phenom X4 processors ahead of rival Intel`s bi-annual Developer Forum.
According to Leslie Sobon, AMD director of product marketing, the triple-core will be aimed squarely between dual and quad-core processors, in both price and market value.
The triple-core was first announced in the last quarter of 2007. Sobon says the X3, in conjunction with the 780G chipset, is looking to reach the high-definition market in graphic and video design and viewing.
"The seven new chips that we are releasing are targeting three specific areas: gaming, digital media and energy efficiency."
She dismisses market speculation that these new releases are too little too late, saying the triple-core is the first of its kind and will boost the company`s portfolio of products.
The company took a beating last year, partly because of design problems with its Barcelona server chip, which AMD said at the time was crucial to regaining market share against rival Intel. Barcelona is expected to reach the market in the next few months.
Technical specs
The tri-core chips released today are the 2.1GHz 8400 and 2.3GHz 8600. AMD has also detailed the chips to follow: the 2.1GHz 8450, 2.3GHz 8650 and 2.4GHz 8750.
Sobon says the processors are aimed principally at the mainstream PC market, but include a high-end 2.5GHz Phenom Black Edition chip, that high-end gamers can overclock (increase chip speeds).
Together with the Black Edition (Phenom X4 9850), the company is distributing Phenom 9500 and 9550, which are both 2.2GHz quad-core processors, and the 2.4GHz Phenom X4 9750. The company has been focusing on the green IT message and, in line with that, has released the 65nm, 65-watt quad-core Phenom X4 9100e (1.8GHz).
Local market pricing for the chips is not yet available.
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