AMD Launches Quad-core Desktop Chip

A dvanced Micro Devices (AMD) introduced a quad-core microprocessor for the desktop, replacing its Athlon processor with the new “Phenom” design.

Quad-core processors are being introduced now as the future platform for playing videogames on the PC, and for someday streaming high-definition content from the Internet to the TV through a home media server.

“AMD has always enjoyed a great bond with the enthusiast community, and the introduction of the AMD Phenom processor family will take our relationship to new heights,” said Gautam Srivastava, vice president, Sales and Marketing and managing director, Middle East, Africa, and Pakistan, AMD.

AMD did not share features or specifications of the Phenom chip design, so some industry experts are withholding judgment until they see benchmark testing.

Adding the Phenom chip to its line of desktop processors will allow AMD to push dual-core processing from its top-shelf desktops into the entire mainstream product family. “That is a key strategy at a time when users are looking for better results from running Windows Vista and doing complex media creation, digital entertainment and multitasking,” said Ian McNaughton, AMD’s product manager for Athlon 64 FX products.

“Our products are no longer just math computation-type processors, but are about your experience on the PC, whether it’s YouTube, BitTorrent, DVR or dual- and quad-core gaming,” McNaughton added.