AMD is taking steps in the right direction, in order to gain a further advantage over rival Intel with the introduction of dual-core processors. AMD confirmed it has completed design of its AMD64 dual-core processors and plans to deliver high-performance dual-core products to the x86 server market in mid-2005 and introduce dual-core solutions for high-end client PCs in the second half of 2005. Intel, having cancelled the Pentium 4 in order to concentrate on dual-core processors, will not have a similar product released until at least 2006.
The dual-core chips will offer enhanced performance for servers and for demanding tasks such as video editing and high-end graphics applications, including games. It will in fact be a very similar experience to running a PC with two processors.
Since the AMD64 platform was first discussed publicly in 1999, AMD indicated that its AMD64 technology would support multiple-core processors.
Because AMD has always listened to our customers, we anticipated an industry shift toward multi-tasking applications requiring the scalability that only 64-bit dual-core processors can provide, said Dirk Meyer, executive vice president, Computation Products Group, AMD. That is why years ago we designed AMD64 technology from the ground up to be optimized for multiple cores.
AMD also plans enhancements to its 64-bit processors with the transition to 90nm manufacturing that began this quarter, providing greater flexibility to boost processor performance and lower power. Additionally, AMDs collaboration with IBM, and AMD Fab 36 is expected to deliver a 65nm manufacturing capability in mid-2005. This should enable AMD to deliver lower-power and higher-performance 65nm products in 2006.
