AMD on Thursday introduced the first triple-core x86 processor for the desktop that it hopes will become the ultimate mainstream desktop platform. The Phenom X3 8000 series triple-core processor targets PC gamers and digital-media enthusiasts. The processor promises improved multithreaded application performance over dual-core processors at the same clock speed.
“In 2007, AMD committed to delivering AMD Phenom triple-core processors in Q1 2008 and today the company makes good on that promise,” said Vice President Bob Brewer. “AMD understands that today’s PC applications are best accelerated with a range of multicore products from quad- to triple- to dual-core processors.”
A Digital Media Delight?
When paired with the AMD 780 series chipset, AMD said Phenom X3 processors can deliver a full high-definition experience with support for the latest formats, including VC-1, MPEG-2 and H.264, on a mainstream PC. When used with the AMD Unified Video Decoder, AMD said its new solution offers a smooth HD viewing experience — less lag, stalling and dropped scenes — in the latest Blu-ray titles.
Desktop PCs with the AMD Phenom X3 processor and AMD 780G chipset also offer DirectX 10 game compatibility, the company said, offering casual gamers lifelike 3D graphics and dynamic interactivity.
What’s more, AMD said, gamers looking to scale their performance with the addition of a discrete graphics card can accelerate their performance with ATI Hybrid Graphics Technology. According to AMD, this technology can harness the graphics power of both an ATI discrete graphics card and the motherboard GPU in tandem, delivering in some applications up to 70 percent improvements in 3D performance.
The ATI Advantage
Charles King, principal analyst at Pund-IT, called the announcement interesting. The industry, he said, is beginning to see there is a natural role for hybrid systems that combine common computing processes with higher-end digital media and digital media features.
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