Intel Unleashes Pentium D

Intel Corp. has announced the follow-up to its Pentium processor Extreme Edition, which was its first multi-core processor. The new dual-core processor for use in desktop PCs is called the Pentium D.

Intel also announced its 945 Express Chipset family, which supports surround-sound audio, high-definition video and enhanced graphics capabilities.

“Consumers today are using their PCs to enjoy the growing amount of digital content including music, videos and photos, and accomplish more tasks simultaneously – for example, playing a game while recording a TV show in the background,” said the company in a press release. “With a home network and a PC based on Intel’s Pentium D processor and 945 Express Chipset, multiple audio, video or gaming streams can be routed to different people in the home simultaneously.” As Jason Miller of Murdok reported:

While Pentium Extreme Edition (PEE) is aimed at high end users, Intel hopes to open up the market with the new, cheaper chip sets. Pentium D, complete with DRM, add support for surround sound audio, high definition video, and enhanced graphics.

By the end of 2006, Intel expects multicore processors to make up 70% of all desktop processors it supplies, and 85% of server processors.

“While the Extreme Edition is a high-end product, with the launch of Pentium D, we are making a major foray into the volume zone, as we prepare ourselves for the transition to the multicore processor era,” said Kazaumasa Yoshida, president of Japan-based Intel KK.

The Intel Pentium D processors 840, 830 and 820 are priced at $530, $316 and $241, respectively, in 1,000-unit quantities, while the Intel 945G and 945P Express Chipsets are priced at $42 and $38, respectively, in 1,000-unit quantities.

Chris is a staff writer for Murdok. Visit Murdok for the latest ebusiness news.