New Next-Generation AMD Opteron Processors Offer Quad-Core Upgrade Path

Next-generation AMD Opteron processors introduced with record OEM design wins and native Quad-Core upgrade path — AMD enables OEMs to offer Quad-Core upgradeable platforms to reduce total cost of ownership and to improve performance-per-Watt in datacenters

AMD today introduced its Next-Generation AMD Opteron processor family, featuring industry-leading performance-per-watt and outstanding virtualization capabilities.

As the only x86 server processor with planned upgradeability to native quad-core within the same thermal design power envelope, Next-Generation AMD Opteron processors are designed to enable customers to increase computing capacity without altering datacenter infrastructure. Improving upon what already is recognized as a standard-bearer for energy-conscious microprocessor architecture design, new platforms based on Next-Generation AMD Opteron processors will be offered in record numbers from global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

“Customers trust AMD for critical server applications, as evidenced by our record Q2 2006 AMD Opteron processor sales, and in 2006, AMD expects to double the number of AMD Opteron processor-based systems offered from global and regional tier-one OEMs,” said Randy Allen, corporate vice president, Server and Workstation Division, AMD. “Today’s announcement represents continued innovation along the customer-directed path we blazed years ago; we provide the complete x86 processor architectural standard for others in the industry to emulate and have planned a seamless upgrade path to quad-core processors.”

In addition to launching its Next-Generation AMD Opteron processors, AMD also announced the completion of the design, or tape-out, of its native Quad-Core AMD Opteron processors. AMD plans to deliver to customers in mid-2007 native Quad-Core AMD Opteron processors that incorporate four processor cores on a single die of silicon.