Intel has kicked off the computer industry’s multi-core PC era by delivering four computing “brains” inside a single microprocessor with the introduction of the Quad-Core Intel Xeon 5300 and Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor families.
Paul Otellini, Intel’s president and CEO, said in the press release, “The capabilities of quad-core microprocessors will bring new possibilities for science, entertainment and business. I’m incredibly proud of what Intel’s employees have achieved with these new products.”
Intel’s new Intel Xeon processors run at clock speeds ranging from 1.60GHz to 2.66GHz, with front side bus (FSB) speeds ranging from 1066MHz to 1333MHz, and thermal design power (TDP) of either 80 watts or a performance-optimized 120 watt option. In the first quarter next year, Intel will launch two more quad-core Xeon processors – a low-voltage version for ultra-dense deployments with a TDP of only 50 watts and a processor designed for single-socket workstations and servers.
The Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor QX6700 is up to 80 percent faster than the company’s current Intel Core 2 Extreme Processor X6800. The Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor QX6700 is available at 2.66GHz with a 1066MHz FSB. The processor runs on Intel’s existing 975X Express chipset family.
Pricing and availability:
• Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor X5355 2.66GHz 1333MHz 8MB 120W – $1172
• Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor E5345 2.33GHz 1333MHz 8MB 80W – $851
• Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor E5320 1.86GHz 1066MHz 8MB 80W – $690
• Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor E5310 1.60GHz 1066MHz 8MB 80W – $455
• Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor QX6700 2.66GHz 1066MHz 8MB 130W – $999
Intel’s press release here.
MacDailyNews Note: Apple’s Mac Pro currently features two 2GHz, 2.66GHz, or 3GHz Dual-Core Intel Xeon 5100 series processors. Apple’s Xserve currently features two 2.66GHz or 3GHz Dual-Core Intel Xeon 5100s.
