AMD Delivers Desktop Product Powerhouse While Reducing Costs for Ecosystem Partners; Newest AMD Athlon(TM) 64 FX and AMD Athlon(TM) 64 X2 Processors Raise Performance, Enable Virtualization
Alienware, Fujitsu Siemens, HP, Lenovo, among Leading OEMs to
Deliver Systems
As part of AMD's ongoing commitment to deliver leading technology
for desktop PCs, AMD (NYSE: AMD) today announced the immediate
availability of the AMD Athlon(TM) 64 FX-62 dual-core processor, the
world's ultimate processor for PC enthusiasts, and the AMD Athlon(TM)
64 X2 5000+dual-core processor compatible with AMD's new socket AM2
platform. Socket AM2 from AMD is designed to enable next-generation
platform innovations such as AMD Virtualization and high-performance,
unbuffered DDR2 memory to the award-winning AMD64 architecture.
Additionally, socket AM2 streamlines the work for motherboard
manufacturers, while reducing costs through economies of scale, which
can provide better products and increase supply chain flexibility.
"The introduction of socket AM2 is another example of AMD
delivering on our customer promise, on time and with industry support
from our AMD64 ecosystem," said Bob Brewer, corporate vice president,
Desktop Division, AMD. "We are again pushing new levels of performance
in our dual-core processors while enabling meaningful innovations like
AMD Virtualization and DDR2 memory."
OEMs shipping systems with socket AM2 processors include
Alienware, Fujitsu Siemens, HP, and Lenovo, as well as more than 40
leading system builders worldwide. Through an open standards approach,
AMD offers customers the ability to build differentiated solutions
that meet commercial and consumer end-user needs.
"Our Aurora family of high-performance systems based on the AMD
Athlon 64 FX and AMD Athlon X2 dual-core processors enable Alienware
to offer our customers amazing custom AMD64 computers," said Frank
Azor, senior vice president and general manager, Worldwide Product
Group, Alienware Corporation. "Our customers expect a remarkable
computing experience using processors from AMD and these new
processors are just what our customers are looking for."
"Our goal is to provide our customers with the newest,
industry-leading technology as it becomes available," said Tom
Anderson, vice president of marketing, global consumer PCs, Personal
Systems Group, HP. "With the addition of these AMD solutions,
consumers can complete demanding graphics projects, download images
and watch movies without missing a beat."
While enthusiasts are often passionate AMD customers, the
transition to socket AM2 provides commercial clients with a single
socket, feature rich solution to fit their needs.
"Lenovo is committed to delivering optimal performance, superior
reliability, and differentiated value in our ThinkCentre desktop PCs,"
said Thomas Tobul, executive director, ThinkCentre Desktops, Lenovo.
"The performance enhancements enabled by the new socket AM2 from AMD
combined with our innovative ThinkVantage Technologies will enhance
the breadth and value of our expanded ThinkCentre line-up."
All AMD64 processors are ready and capable today to provide users
with the foundation needed to experience the power of Windows
Vista(TM). AMD has been working closely with Microsoft to identify and
develop key hardware and system requirements for Windows Vista.
"We are excited about the socket AM2 processors launching from AMD
in preparation for Windows Vista," said Mike Sievert, corporate vice
president, Windows Client Marketing at Microsoft. "The AMD Athlon 64
FX and AMD Athlon 64 X2 dual-core processors offer powerful
capabilities for new business and consumer scenarios using Windows XP
today and will enable even more compelling business and consumer
breakthroughs for users of Windows Vista."
With socket AM2, AMD brings new capabilities like AMD
Virtualization to both commercial and consumer users. Virtualization
on desktop computers allows a single PC to act like multiple virtual
machines. AMD Virtualization can enable client computers to seamlessly
support multiple operating environments. Therefore, IT managers can
now gain the ability to develop and test software across multiple
operating systems on a single computer to facilitate software
migrations, isolate business and personal operating environments to
increase security and reliability, and to initialize and manage client
computers with less interruption to end users. AMD Virtualization
helps make it easier for PC enthusiasts to upgrade and maintain their
PCs through emulation.
AMD Athlon 64 X2, AMD Athlon 64 and AMD Sempron(TM) Processor
Socket AM2 lineup compatible with Socket AM2
For prosumers and digital enthusiasts who are looking to run
sophisticated, multiple processor-intense applications simultaneously,
AMD has transitioned the entire lineup of AMD Athlon 64 X2 dual-core
processors over to the new socket AM2 while adding the AMD Athlon 64
X2 5000+ and 4000+ dual-core processors.
For current and future needs, the AMD Athlon 64 desktop
single-core processors helps ensure exceptional performance on today's
software with readiness for the coming wave of 64-bit computing. With
AMD64 technology, customers can embrace the new capabilities of 64-bit
computing on their own terms to achieve compatibility with existing
software and operating systems. The following AMD Athlon 64 processors
are available in both sockets 939 and AM2: AMD Athlon 64 3500+ and
3800+ processors.
AMD Sempron processors are tailored to the growing segment of
value-conscious PC users seeking a full-featured product with
best-in-class performance for the changing face of everyday computing.
The following AMD Sempron processors are available in both socket 939
and AM2: AMD Sempron 64 3000+, 3200+, 3400+, 3500+ and 3600+
processors.
Availability and Pricing
Socket AM2 processors from AMD are available immediately
worldwide.
Pricing for the new AMD Athlon 64 FX-62 and AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+
dual-core processors is $1,031 and $696, respectively in 1KU PIB. AMD
has also added an AMD Athlon 64 X2 4000+ that will be priced at $328
in 1KU PIB. For pricing details, please visit: www.amd.com/pricing.
About AMD64
The AMD64 processor platform is the gold standard for 64-bit
computing. AMD64's Direct Connect Architecture evolves industry
standards to deliver break-through performance on single- and
dual-core processors, reducing bottlenecks inherent in traditional
front-side bus architectures. AMD64 technology is also designed to
enhance the security of computing environments by integrating Enhanced
Virus Protection(1) technology enabled by advanced anti-virus features
in current versions of Linux, Microsoft(R) Windows(R) and Solaris
operating systems. Today, more than 50 percent of the top 500 Forbes
Global 2000 companies or their subsidiaries, representing the world's
most competitive industries, now rely on AMD64 technology-based
systems to run their enterprise applications. Since their 2003
introduction, AMD64 processors have earned more than 200 industry
awards and the support of more than 2,000 OEMs, hardware and software
developers, system builders and distributors. For more information on
the AMD64 processor platform, see www.amd.com/amd64.
About AMD
Advanced Micro Devices (NYSE: AMD) is a leading global provider of
innovative microprocessor solutions for computing, communications and
consumer electronics markets. Founded in 1969, AMD is dedicated to
delivering superior computing solutions based on customer needs that
empower users worldwide. For more information visit www.amd.com.
AMD, the AMD Arrow logo, AMD Athlon, and combinations thereof are
trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Microsoft and Windows are
registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or
other countries. Other names are for informational purposes only and
may be trademarks of their respective owners.
(1) Enhanced Virus Protection (EVP) is only enabled by certain
operating systems including the current versions of Microsoft(R)
Windows(R), Linux, Solaris and BSD Unix. After properly installing the
appropriate operating system release, users must enable the protection
of their applications and associated files from buffer overrun
attacks. Consult your OS documentation for information on enabling
EVP. Contact your application software vendor for information
regarding use of the application in conjunction with EVP. AMD strongly
recommends that users continue to use third party anti-virus software
as part of their security strategy.
Socket AM2 Customer and Technology Partner Support Addendum
AMD is collaborating with industry leading companies to help
ensure a smooth transition to socket AM2.
"The combination of new AMD Athlon 64 FX-62 and AMD Athlon 64 X2
5000+ dual-core processors with ATI's CrossFire graphics and chipset
platforms results in the most impressive PC performance available
today," said Phil Eisler, senior vice president and general manager,
Integrated and Mobile Business Unit, ATI Technologies. "Using
CrossFire Xpress and Radeon Xpress as the bedrock for AMD's formidable
dual-core processors, we're delivering brilliant 3D image quality and
rock-solid reliability, demonstrating that AMD and ATI continue to
enjoy a strong relationship that brings the best technologies possible
to PC users everywhere."
"We are pleased to be working with AMD again to bring a powerful
and high-performing processor to our motherboards using socket AM2,"
said Joe Hsieh, vice president, Motherboard Business Unit, ASUSTeK,
"Together with ASUS' excellent design and manufacturing ability, users
can enjoy an enhanced computing experience."
"Thanks to the new AM2 memory controller design, we were able to
take DDR2 memory performance to a new level. Our market-leading memory
modules are able to reach higher clock speeds with AMD's new
processors than with any other memory controller," said John Beekley,
vice president, Applications Engineering, Corsair Memory. "We applaud
AMD on this latest release. We believe our common customers, computer
hardware enthusiasts and gamers, will benefit immediately from these
advances in memory performance."
"As complete support for dual-core CPUs is becoming essential, we
at Croteam definitely appreciate all the power we can get for our new
Serious Engine," said Dean Sekulic, programmer, Croteam. "The AMD
Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor is the power behind our development."
"CyberPower is excited to offer the new socket AM2 processors like
the AMD Athlon(TM) 64 FX-62 dual-core processor, and the AMD
Athlon(TM) 64 X2 dual-core processor 5000+ for delivering the ultimate
in gaming performance for your hardcore enthusiast demands," said Eric
Cheung, CEO, CyberPower, Inc. "With our renowned loyalty to service
and support, CyberPower can unleash the most powerful gaming
performance for you."
"Since the introduction of multi-core processors, the way we
create technology for games has changed forever. DICE (Digital
Illusions) is in the process of creating a new powerful gaming engine
that take full advantage of the extra processing power that multi-core
CPUs give us," said Torbjorn Soderman, lead rendering programmer,
DICE. "This power enables us to create richer and more lifelike worlds
which will enhance the immersion and quality of game play to new
heights. The new AMD Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor excels in these
environments and future DICE games using our new multi-core engine
technology will fully harness its power."
"Elitegroup is glad to announce the KN3 SLI2, KA3 MVP and RS485M-M
will support the socket AM2 processors and DDR2 memory. The KN3 SLI2
and KA3 MVP motherboards are dedicated gaming platforms for the
enthusiast, while the RS485M-M is a highly integrated motherboard for
entertainment," said Adam Chou, marketing director, Product Marketing
Division, Elitegroup. "Elitegroup provides a full product line of
socket AM2 solutions for different market segments."
"The AMD Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor is an amazingly powerful
processor," said Tim Sweeney, CEO, Epic Games Inc. "It provides
excellent performance for next-generation games built on Epic's Unreal
Engine 3. We're thrilled to see AMD moving so quickly to bring
high-performance dual-core computing to gamers."
"Gamers who own an AMD Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor and a
solid graphics card will be rendering Civilization 4 in all its
glory," said Tim McCracken, qa manager, Firaxis Games. "On a huge map
with 18 Civilizations, the AMD Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor
processed my gaming strategy turns instantaneously."
"Fujitsu Siemens Computers' modular and environmentally-conscious
designed ESPRIMO Professional PC line offers users the highest quality
standards and cutting-edge technology," said Andreas Thimmel, vice
president, Business Clients, Fujitsu Siemens Computers. "The
transition to socket AM2 enables performance enhancements and
next-generation platform innovations such as AMD Virtualization and
high-performance, unbuffered DDR2 memory."
"GIGABYTE is honored to work with AMD to bring the best socket AM2
solutions to the PC market," said David Chiang, general manager,
GIGABYTE Channel Business Unit. "GIGABYTE GA-M59SLI-S5, a socket AM2
motherboard, brings consumers some of the best motherboard engineering
development ever undertaken by GIGABYTE such as Silent, Speed, Smart,
Safe and SLI. Socket AM2 processors in conjunction with GIGABYTE
motherboards, enable excellent performance from the socket AM2
platform."
"The AMD Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor is optimal for our
HydraCore(TM) technology which allows our customers to harness the
power of a multi-core or multi-threaded system," said Tom Keating,
director of engineering, Havok. "Not only does HydraCore run smoothly
and without any problems, but it runs a staggering 82% faster when
utilizing both cores. Combine that with games running on AMD's Athlon
64 FX dual-core processors and the results will be phenomenal."
"Kingston is strongly committed to supporting the latest AMD
roadmap and new technology efforts," said Mark Tekunoff, senior
technical manager, Kingston. "Kingston's involvement with AMD in
technology development and our close collaboration with AMD ensures
our mutual customers will have ample availability of DDR2 modules
worldwide. Kingston is ready to support AMD's new socket AM2
transition with our full line of DDR2 memory modules."
"MSI is pleased to announce the K9N SLI Platinum and K9N Ultra
motherboards now support the socket AM2 platform," said Charles
Chiang, vice president, Research & Development Division, MSI. "K9N SLI
Platinum is a powerful solution for the socket AM2 platform, K9N Ultra
is the mainstream powerful product for power users with products that
has been tested to meet AMD's strict standard of compatibility. The
K9N series products are among the highest quality MSI flagship
motherboards."
"The AMD Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor-based machines give us a
25% reduction in build times for development, while at the same time
still providing excellent frame rates when we crank the display and
graphics settings all the way up in Flight Sim," said Carl Edlund, dev
manager, Microsoft Flight Sim Team. "The application load times are
one tenth our other machines, which makes this a very sought after
piece of hardware in our halls."
"AMD's latest socket AM2 processors pave the way for improved
bandwidth with DDR2 memory, and offer new ways to optimize performance
over older DDR memory technology," said Terren Tong, product manager,
NCIX.com. "In conjunction with AMD's proven X2 dual core technology,
we're excited by the performance boost that socket AM2, AMD Athlon 64
FX-62 and AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ dual-core processors will bring to
the consumer."
"Multi-core is clearly the future of performance computing and AMD
is at the forefront of this technology," said Tom Gambill, senior
software engineer, NC Soft. "The AMD Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor
is the clear leader in 3D gaming and a dual-core version is just what
we have been waiting for."
"AMD has been a valuable partner to the overall success of our
entire NVIDIA nForce product portfolio, which, as of today, are deeply
entrenched in the enthusiast, mobile, professional, and UMA markets,"
said Drew Henry, general manager of MCP business at NVIDIA. "NVIDIA
and AMD share a common passion in developing innovative technologies
and today's introduction of the new socket AM2 platform continues that
tradition in fine form."
"Remedy welcomes AMD Athlon 64 FX as its dual-core capabilities
are the true next generation of PC gaming," said Markus Maki,
development director, Remedy Entertainment. "Alan Wake will run with
improved visual and physical fidelity on dual-core processors, and the
extra processing power will be integral for future gaming."
"SiS fully endorses AMD's pioneering vision of next-generation
platform innovations and will keep providing support to its industry
standardization to have better solutions created for our customers,"
said Daniel Chen, CEO, SiS. "SiS has been co-developing technologies
with AMD for many years, and realizes immediate benefits from AMD
dual-core processors. With native dual-core AMD64 processors, users
are able to run multimedia and security applications with enhanced
performance, and also enjoy new levels of multi-tasking capabilities."
"Vivendi Games is pleased to reinforce our continued commitment to
PC gaming excellence based on AMD64 technology. With the launch of the
next generation AMD Athlon 64 FX dual-core processor, we're seeing the
PC gaming experience really come of age," said Peter Della Penna,
EVP/COO Worldwide Studios, Vivendi Games. "Combining the advantages of
dual-core technology, the AMD64 instruction set, and an incredibly
fast HyperTransport(TM) link, PC games are set to reach new levels of
realism and performance. We've been thrilled to discover our own
benchmarks reveal outstanding performance across a broad range of our
titles. Our support for the AMD Athlon 64 platform continues in 2006
and beyond."
"VIA is proud to support AMD's continued processor leadership in
the transition to socket AM2," commented Chewei Lin, vice president,
Product Marketing, VIA Technologies Inc. "Through the support of
technologies such as AMD Virtualization and high-performance DDR2
memory, the new socket AM2 platform together with VIA's leadership in
top-to-bottom chipset solutions will offer customers optimal
performance without compromise."