AMD set to release low-cost six-core Phenom IIs
Motherboard makers getting ready
AMD is poised to release its new six-core enthusiast-level processors at prices far below competing Intel parts, and Asustek, Gigabyte, and MSI are busily readying motherboards in anticipation of the launch.
So say "sources from motherboard makers" speaking with the Taiwanese market-watchers at DigiTimes.
According to that news site's report, the two six-core parts will be, as expected, the Phenom II X6 1055T and Phenom II X6 1090T Black Edition.
Word on the street is that the 1055T will run at 2.8GHz and the 1090T will start at 3.2GHz but will have an unlocked multiplier. Both will be in AM3 packages.
The price for the 1055T will hover around $200, and the 1090T Black Edition should set you back around $305 to $315, according to DigiTimes' sources. Compare that to Intel's top-drawer six-core Core i7-980X Extreme Edition, which clocks at 3.33GHz, but which runs a cool $999 in lots of 1,000.
DigiTimes also noted that three more AMD six-core desktop processors, including the Phenom II X6 1035T, will appear "at a later time." Don't expect to wait very long. ®
COMMENTS
Re: socket
When I read the announcement on THG they said it would come in AM2 and AM3 versions.
Fusion (with onchip graphics) will get a socket change next year.
Actually...
...the short answer is: yes (probably) - most AM2+ mainboards will work with AM3 CPUs, though as Snobol4 says you may need a BIOS upgrade. Check your mainboard model+PCB revision+BIOS version on the manufacturer's website.
The way is works with AM2/AM2+/AM3 is that newer processors may work in older sockets but not the other way around.
socket AM3 cpus work in socket AM2+ motherboards
Hi, don't be afraid to do this, so long as your bios has an update for Phenom II x4, AM3 cpus contain support for DDR2 or DDR3. Not sure about 6 core Phenom II will have to research. I don't thnik the short answer is sufficient answer. AMD rules!
Ta.
Cheers AB3 and Snobol - interesting to know.
I chickened out of popping an AM3 Phenom II in there last time as I was concerned about compatibility, so I'll keep tabs and check with Asus and see what they say.
It's an Asus T3 barebones, with 8gb in it at the moment - runs my media transcoding servers and music streamers, and experimental stuff like alternate linux distros and what not, so more CPU power = faster transcoding, etc.
A grateful,
Steven R
AM2+ compatability
Short answer: no you cannot. You'll need a new motherboard.
