The processor war continues on the dual-core front, as AMD brings its dual-core processor to market against Intel.
Consumers win again as the two big chipmaking companies bring out speedy dual-core processors. AMD’s Athlon 64 X2 will “shatter the hourglass” according to AMD, making a reference to the ubiquitous computer icon that tells users to sit back and wait.
“With the introduction of the AMD Athlon 64 X2 dual-core processor, desktop users will gain incredible performance benefits with the ability to multi-task and do more in less time,” said Bob Brewer, Corporate Vice President, Desktop Business, Microprocessor Solutions Sector (MSS), AMD.
One benefit for computer manufacturers who use the processor comes from the 939 pin infrastructure. AMD’s single core processors use the same infrastructure, which means PC makers can easily place the new processor into existing motherboards. Only a BIOS upgrade would be needed to support the dual-core processor.
New PCs carrying the dual-core processors will enable more efficient multi-tasking for users, who increasingly do a lot of tasks while at their machines. With a single core processor, lag time and slowdowns become noticeable as applications like digital media playback compete with web browsing and instant messaging for processor time.
“Multi-tasking is becoming increasingly prevalent as end users attempt to do more with their PCs, particularly in the areas of digital content creation and multimedia consumption,” said Roger Kay, Vice President of Client Computing at IDC.
Digital media enthusiasts will see an impact on applications like video, as the dual-core supports high-definition multimedia and content creation. But one group that won’t be ready to go dual-core yet will be gamers.
Games written today take advantage of single-thread processors. As multi-threaded games become available from software makers, there will be demand for a dual-core version of current high-end gaming oriented processors used by PC makers like Alienware and Dell.
David Utter is a staff writer for murdok covering technology and business. Email him here.
