AMD Announces 'Triple-Core' Toliman (Phenom X3) Desktop CPUs
AMD updated its desktop multi-core roadmap with "triple-core" Phenom X3 processors based on Barcelona architecture, adding them to dual-core Phenom X2 and quad-core Phenom X4. Speaking of the naming, according to sources, these products will be officially codenamed "Toliman".
The novelty will have features similar to those of Phenom X2 and Phenom X4: Socket AM2+, DDR2 controller, 512 KB L2 and 2MB of shared L3. Essentially, a triple-core processor is the same quad-core Phenom with one core disabled. This enables AMD to kill at least two birds with one stone: increase the yield and expand the offering with a "new" unusual processor.
From this point of view the company can actually claim that it offers a unique triple-core solution, further advancing multi-core into masses (that's what AMD is focusing on). And Phenom X3 will be cheaper than Phenom X4 (AMD also mentions a competitive price for Toliman).
The Phenom X3 will inherit a number of innovations from Barcelona: Cool'n'Quiet 2.0 (independent core clock rate adjustment) and power-saving features. Besides, the new CPU will operate through HyperTransport 3.0 providing up to 16GB/s of throughput.
As for the performance of triple-core solutions, AMD promises significant performance boost comparing to dual-core processors. At least, in SYSmark 2007 and 3DMark06 (digital content and gaming applications).
We should expect the official release of triple-core Phenom processors in Q1 2008, while the quad-core Phenom is to be released already in Q4 2007.
Sources: AMD, TGDaily, CNet, DailyTech, OCW
