SUNNYVALE: Chipmaker Advanced Micro Devices Inc. has developed a new socket that supports faster DDR2 memory and its version of virtualization technology. This will mean that a user can run more than one operating system on a machine. The socket, called AM2, streamlines the work for motherboard makers, while reducing costs through economies of scale.
Socket AM2 adopts 940-pin technology replacing the company's Socket 939 on motherboards, and it works only with new AMD processors that support DDR2 memory. The new socket also includes a new 4-bolt tray to offer a more stable platform for the processor heat sink.
While the company has introduced AM2 versions for most of its existing 939 technology-based Sempron, Athlon 64 and Athlon 64x2 processors, it has announced two new AM2 only processors.
The company said its new top-of-the line 2.8-GHz Athlon 64 FX-62 will sell for about $1031 and supports up to 800-MHz DDR2; the new 2.6-GHz Athlon 64 X2 5000+ will sell for about $696. This and other new AM2 X2 chips support up to 667-MHz DDR2.
In addition to these products, the company is now offering lower-watt versions of its X2 processors for use with Socket AM2 motherboards. The new energy-efficient models can reduce the maximum power specification from 110 watts to 85 watts. Each reduced-power X2 chip carries a small price premium over the standard X2 version.
AMD said motherboards that support the new AM2 standard will be in markets immediately from vendors, including Abit, Asus, Biostar, ECS, EPox, Gigabyte, Leadtek, MSI and Shuttle.
Among the computer makers using the new chips are Alienware, Fujitsu Siemens, HP and Lenovo.
AMD's corporate vice president, desktop division, Bob Brewer said the introduction of socket AM2 is another example of AMD delivering on its customer promise, on time and with industry support from its AMD64 ecosystem. "We are again pushing new levels of performance in our dual-core processors while enabling meaningful innovations like AMD Virtualization and DDR2 memory."
All AMD64 processors are ready and capable to deploy Windows Vista. The company has been working closely with Microsoft to identify and develop key hardware and system requirements for the new operating system.
Microsoft's vice president for Windows Client Marketing Mike Sievert said the company is excited about the socket AM2 processors. He said 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 also makes its virtualization properties available to computer users. Virtualization allows a single PC to act as multiple virtual machines. Client computers can seamlessly support multiple operating environments, a property that will enable IT managers to develop and test software across multiple operating systems on a single computer, besides several other similar uses.
