AMD launches new Athlon dual-core processors

Jack Writes:Chip maker AMD has announced availability of its new high-end dual-core processors, the Athlon 64 FX-62 and the Athlon 64 X2 5000+. The processors are compatible with AMD's new socket AM2 platform, which is designed to enable Virtualisation and high-performance, unbuffered DDR2 memory.

Virtualization on desktop computers allows a single PC to act like multiple virtual machines, enabling users to more easily run multiple operating environments on a single computer.

OEMs shipping systems with socket AM2 processors include Alienware, Fujitsu Siemens, HP, and Lenovo, as well as more than 40 leading system builders worldwide.

"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 Virtualisation and DDR2 memory."

According to AMD, all AMD64 processors are ready and capable today to provide users with the foundation needed to experience the power of Windows Vista. 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."

"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."

"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."