AMD releases new consumer flagship processor X2 6000+

Sunnyvale (CA) - A few months late, AMD today fired up the latest and likely last performance stage for its 90 nm Athlon 64 X2 processor with Windsor core. The new 6000+ model is clocked at 3 GHz and represents a consumer-focused socket AM2 version of the FX-74 enthusiast processor that is based on the socket 1207FX.

Originally scheduled for a mid Q4 2006 release, the 6000+ processor extends the high-end of AMD's consumer processor portfolio, complementing the 5600+ (2.8 GHz, 2 MB L2 cache), 5400+ (2.8 GHz, 1 MB), 5200+ (2.6 GHz, 2 MB) and 5000+ (2.6 GHz, 1 MB). The new CPU arrives with the same features as the FX-74 chip, with the main difference being the socket, which limits the 6000+ to single-processor systems and allows the FX-74 to be used in pairs in dual-socket QuadFX computers.

The 6000+ is as power hungry as its sister model, consuming a maximum of 125 watts. AMD is expected to introduce an enhanced 89-watt version of the 6000+ by the beginning of the third quarter of this year - or just about at the time when the company will refresh its dual-core processor lineup with 65 nm processors that are based on the new "Kuma" core.

According to recent AMD roadmaps, AMD's 90 nm dual-core product family is now almost complete: A 5800+ version (3 GHz, 1 MB, 89 watts) is expected to debut in concert with the 89-watt 6000+.

Pricing for the new 6000+ is set at $464 for customers who purchase 1000-unit trays. For comparison, a pair of FX-74 processors carries a manufacturer price of $999, while the Athlon 64 X2 5600+ is offered for $326 and the 5400+ for $267. In a competitive view, the 6000+ is priced right between Intel's Core 2 Duo E6700 ($530) and E6600 ($316).

For applications that require lower power consumption, AMD also launched its first 65 nm single core Athlon 64 3500+ (2.2 GHz) and 3800+ (2.4 GHz) processors. Based on the "Lima" core, will remain the only 65 nm Athlon 64 processors plans to offer. However, in Q3 of this year, AMD will move its 65 nm technology into the Sempron processor lineup and introduce 65 nm ("Sparta") versions of the Sempron 3800+, 3600+, 3500+ and 3400+.

The Athlon 64 processors 3500+ and 3800+ are priced at $88 and $93, respectively.