Technology for u

The upcoming Intel Nehalem CPU has been in the spotlight for months now. In contrast and despite the huge die size and 1.9 billion (!) transistors, the 6-core Xeon 74xx is a wallflower for both the public as Intel's marketing. However, if you've invested in the current Intel platform, the newly launched Intel 74xx series deserves a lot more attention.
The Xeon 74xx, formerly known as Dunnington, is indeed a very interesting upgrade path for the older quad socket platform. All Xeon 74xx use the same mPGA604 socket as previous Xeons and are electrically compatible with the Xeon 73xx series. The Xeon 73xx , also known as Tigerton, was basically the quad-core version of the Xeon 53xx (Clovertown) that launched at the end 2006. The new hex-core Dunnington combines six of the latest 45nm Xeon Penryn cores on a single die. As you may remember from our dual socket 45nm Xeon 54xx review, the 45nm Penryn core is about 10% to 20% faster than its older 65nm brother (Merom). There is more: an enormous 12MB to 16MB L3 cache ensures that those six cores access high latency main memory a lot less. This huge L3 also reduces the amount of "cache syncing" traffic between the CPUs, an important bottleneck for the current Intel server platforms.
2.66GHz, 6 cores, 3x3MB L2, and 16MB L3 cache: a massive new Intel CPU
With at least 10% to 20% better performance per core, two extra cores per CPU package, and an upgrade that only requires a BIOS update, the newest Xeon 7460 should be an attractive proposal if you are short on processing power.
Six Cores?
Dunnington was announced at the past IDFs as "extending the MP leadership". Readers who read our last quad socket report understand that this is a questionable claim. Since AMD introduced the Opteron 8xxx in April 2003, there has never been a moment that Intel was able to lead the dance in the quad socket server market. Sure, the Intel 73xx was able to outperform the AMD chip in some areas (rendering), but the AMD quad-core was still able to keep up with Intel chip in Java, ERP, and database performance. When it comes to HPC, the AMD chip was clearly in the lead.
Dunnington might not be the darling of Intel marketing, but the chip itself is a very aggressive statement: let us "Bulldoze" AMD out of the quad socket market with a truly gigantic chip that only Intel can produce without losing money. Intel is probably - courtesy of the impressive ultra low leakage 45nm high-K process technology - the only one capable of producing large quantities of CPUs containing 1.9 billion transistors, resulting in an enormous die size of 503 mm2. That is almost twice the size of AMD's upcoming 45nm quad-core CPU Shanghai. Even IBM's flagship POWER6 processor (up to 4.7GHz) is only 341 mm2 and only has 790 million transistors.


Intel Xeon 7460 Six Cores to Bulldoze Opteron Processors,intel,intel xeon, intel xeon 7460, intel 7460, xeon 7460, 7460 six cores to bulldoze, Opteron processors, intel processors,bull doze opteron processors

The Intel Core 2 Duo E7200 is new low-cost Core 2 processor targeted at the mainstream market.
Like all processors that use the Intel Wolfdale core, it is built upon the smaller 45nm process technology using Intel's new high-k (hafnium) dielectric and metal gate technology. The result is a smaller, cooler and more efficient processor.
Unlike other Wolfdale-based processors though, the Core 2 Duo E7200 has half its L2 cache disabled. This leaves the processor with only 3MB of L2 cache. It also uses a slower FSB speed of 1066 MHz.
But does that mean it is slower than the Conroe-based Core 2 Duo processors that have 4MB of L2 cache and a faster FSB speed? You would be surprised at the results when we tested this processor and compared it against the performance of the Conroe-based Core 2 Duo processors.




Intel Core 2 Duo E7200 Dual Core Processor,Intel, intel core 2 duo, core2 duo E7200,dual core processor, intel core 2 duo,intel core 2 duo, intel E7200, Dual core processor,dual, dual core processor, core 2duo

Last week, when going through the "what's new" list of a local supplier, I found a gem: an inexpensive mini-ITX motherboard with a dual core Atom processor. This little marvel, the Intel D945GCLF2, does not even show up on the Intel web site - other than being noted as announced during IDF. Interested in what it was capable of, I bought one on the spot.
The idea of very low power processors that are "fast enough" for many applications is starting to catch on. It would be fair to say that Asus took the world by fire with their original Eee PC, and followed it up with the highly successful Eee PC 901 - spawning a whole new "netbook" category of sub-notebook computers with enough processing power for Internet access and every day tasks. Mind you, Asus dropped the ball by not hitting its initially announced $199 Eee PC price tag, however there are now very capable netbooks around $300, like some models of the Acer AspireOne.

Asus then followed by releasing the Eee Box, bringing low powered tiny desktops to the public - sure they won't run Crysis, but they will do office apps and internet browsing, for less money, and while only sipping power compared to gaming boxes, and they can save even more money by avoiding the Microsoft Tax, by shipping a friendly Linux distribution pre-installed on the computer.
Low power computers are in fact enough for most people's use, and make excellent second, third or fourth computers in a family home. After all, how much power do you need to run Open Office and FireFox? Not much.

AMD has confirmed rumors that it is working on DirectX 11, announcing at CEATEC that it plans to release its first DirectX 11-compatible GPUs in 2009. The company also predicted an increase in general purpose computing on GPUs (GPGPU) and a transition to a 40nm fabricating standard, which ought to give graphics chip performance rates a considerable boost. In layman terms: Things are about to get a lot bigger and a lot prettier.


Bigger cache boosts performance of Athlon XP 3000+ processor.

AMD has won its game of "cache up" with Intel. The newest Athlon XP processors, code-named Barton, have double the Level 2 cache of previous models. Our first tests show the results: Barton-based Athlon XP 3000+ systems flew through productivity work, just topping the fastest Pentium 4 systems we've tested. AMD-based PCs also continue to triumph in the pricing contest, often selling for hundreds less than comparably configured P4 computers.
Record Breakers
We tested three high-end PCs carrying the Athlon XP 3000+: Polywell's $2155 Poly 880NF2-3000; Sys Technology's $3153 Sys Performance 3000+; and Falcon Northwest's $3275 Mach V Athlon XP 3000+. All of them had 1GB of 333-MHz DDR memory and a slew of high-end components, including ATI's Radeon 9700 Pro graphics card. The Polywell and Falcon machines ran Windows XP Home while the Sys ran Windows XP Professional (a negligible factor in our PC WorldBench 4 tests). Polywell sent a preproduction unit; the other two PCs were shipping models.
The Sys PC raced in with a score of 137 on our benchmark--the fastest result of any system to date. The Polywell checked in at 136; the Falcon, at 134--all insignificant performance differences.
By comparison, the zippiest 3.06-GHz P4 system we've tested, a previously reviewed $2860 Sys unit with 512MB of 1.066-GHz RDRAM, scored 132, just slightly lower than our top-performing Athlon XP 3000+ system.
Three additional 3.06-GHz P4 systems equipped with 1GB of memory that we tested for the Januaryhyperthreading story averaged 121. That means the top Athlon XP PC scored about 13 percent higher, a noticeable difference.
For comparison we also tested AMD-based Poly and Falcon systems using the original, non-Barton Athlon XP 2800+ chip; PC WorldBench 4 results fell by 2 to 4 points. In several other tests, however--including Nero Burning ROM and Musicmatch--the 3000+ PCs performed slightly below the 2800+ systems.
The 3000+ systems' average time of 226 seconds in the AutoCAD test trounced the P4 PCs' average time of 273 seconds. The 3000+ PCs also outperformed the Intel-based systems in the Photoshop, Premiere, Nero Burning ROM, and Unreal Tournament tests; the P4 machines prevailed in the Musicmatch and Return to Castle Wolfenstein tests.
The 3000+ Skinny
AMD is shipping three new Barton-based processors: The Athlon XP 3000+ (running at 2.167 GHz), a new XP 2800+ (2.083 GHz), and the first XP 2500+ (1.833 GHz). All three include a 512KB L2 cache and a 333-MHz frontside bus. The 2800+ Barton-based CPU replaces an existing Athlon XP 2800+ chip that AMD shipped in small quantities to five PC vendors in fall 2002.
The original 2800+ chip, which runs at 2.25 GHz, is faster than both its replacement and the 3000+ chip. What gives? According to AMD, the 2800+ model number is based on the level of performance the chip delivers in PCs when running certain applications. The new 2800+ uses cache instead of megahertz to reach that level of application performance.
By the time you read this, all 2800+ chips shipping in PCs should be Barton-based models, according to AMD.
The company plans to ship an Athlon XP 3200+ processor by mid-2003, and in September it will debut its oft-delayed Athlon 64 CPU. AMD's future chip pairs 64-bit technology with a faster memory interface that should lead to improved performance.
Intel also plans several new chips, including a 3.2-GHz P4 that should be ready by April, says Kevin Krewell, general manager at research firm In-Stat/MDR. The company will follow that with a 3.4-GHz chip, code-named Prescott, offering twice the P4's current L2 cache (1MB) and improved hyperthreading, he says.
In the meantime, your best deal is likely a computer with AMD's Athlon XP 2800+ chip, since the prices of such systems are noticeably lower than those of 3000+ PCs (about $200) but their performance is not. And the price differences between Athlon XP 3000+ machines and 3-GHz P4 systems can run as high as $600.

When you want a sensational high-definition (HD) experience, look no further than PCs with Intel® Core™2 processor with Viiv™ technology. Built on the latest hafnium-infused 45nm dual- and quad-core processors, these systems give you performance for HD audio and video and your most demanding applications.
Key components
The cutting edge is now. Every PC with an Intel Core 2 processor with Viiv technology is powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo or Intel Core 2 Quad processor to give you the performance to run demanding applications and manage your HD entertainment. To see the list of all processors available for the Intel Core 2 processor with Viiv technology, see the PC Requirements page.
PCs built from the ground up for sensational high-definition experiences. The Intel Core 2 processor with Viiv technology includes the latest Intel chipsets with most everything you need to build a multimedia PC for HD content. Experience stunning sound from movies and music with up to 7.1 surround sound capabilities enabled by Intel® High Definition Audio (Intel® HD Audio). Get full 1080P video playback for movie clips, media streams, and the latest generation of HD video cameras with optional Intel® Clear Video Technology. And explore the Internet with 1GB-capable broadband Ethernet to quickly access high-definition content. The possibilities are endless.
Operating system
Microsoft Vista Home Premium* makes it easy to control and enjoy your digital media.


Intel® Core™2 Processor with Viiv™ Technology,ibase motherboard with intel, intel core2 processor,cor2 with viiv technology, viiv technology,

IBASE Technology (TASDAQ: 8050), a leading supplier of industrial computers, reveals the MI940 Mini-ITX motherboard incorporating the Intel® 945GC Express chipset with GMA950 graphics core. The MI940 is designed with an LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™ 2 Duo processor, Intel® Pentium® D Processor and Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor supporting HT Technology with system bus of 800/533MHz. It comes with two DDR2 memory sockets for up to 2GB system memory for faster system responsiveness.
MI940 is ideal for applications in the medical, point-of-sale, kiosk and gaming sectors. Featuring the Intel® 945GC integrated graphics and Chrontel CH7307, MI940 comes with CRT and DVI-D interfaces at the board edge. LAN functionality is provided by an Intel® 82574L PCI-Express Gigabit Ethernet controller.Aside from having a PCI and PCI-E (x1) slots, MI940 is expandable with the optional ID394 and ID395 daughter boards to support additional serial ports and TPM function respectively. Other useful features on board include four SATA II ports, six USB 2.0 ports, watchdog timer, digital I/O and two serial ports. Board dimensions are 170mm by 170mm.
MI940 FEATURES
LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™ 2 Duo / Pentium D / Pentium 4 CPU
Intel® 945GC Express chipset based
Supports up to 800MHz system bus
Two DDR2 DIMM for up to 2GB memory
Supports one Intel PCI-E Gigabit LAN
4x SATA II, 1x IDE, 6x USB 2.0, 2x COM, 5.1 channel high definition Audio
1 x PCI Express (x1), 1 x PCI (supports 2 Master)


IBASE Reveals MI940 Mini-ITX motherboard with Intel® 945GC Express Chipset,ibase, ibase MI940, Mini-ITX,ibase motherboards,Mini-ITX, intel,ibase motherboard with intel,intel 945GC, 945 GC express chipset, express chipset

The new AMD Phenom X4 9850 is a great processor for its segment even though it is still not able to dominate in any fashion over the Intel quad-core options. Just as with the initial 2.3 GHz Phenom B2 launch, AMD still considers the Intel Core 2 Q6600 its primary competition, and I consider the Q9450 to be another potential threat as well. This new CPU is definitely getting AMD closer to its performance goals and any enthusiast or gamer looking for a ~$240 processor is going to have a fantastic experience with the 9850. The added performance and efficiency of the 2000 MHz memory controller and system bus add to the benefits of the 2.50 GHz clock rate producing the best fastest stock speed AMD quad-core CPU to date. Though I feel a bit like a broken record, we again should put a caveat on all of this: if AMD COULD put out a part to compete with Intel in the high-end processor segment they would. The 65nm process that the current generation Phenom is using just won't allow it and the engineers in Sunnyvale still have a lot of work ahead to start giving Intel competition in the high profit-margin area of $400+ processors.





AMD Phenom X4 9850 Processor,amd,amd processors, amd phenom x4,x4 9850, amd x4 processors,amd phenom,
amd processor, amd 9850.

AMD Phenom processors When we first heard about the Phenom triple-core processors, I have to admit I was very skeptical… As it stands now from the performance outlook, the AMD Phenom X3 series of parts it pretty intriguing. In most of our tests the performance of the X3 8750 CPU was better than dual-core processors including AMD's own Athlon X2 6000+ and the Intel X6800 2.93 GHz part.”
“I was expecting the X3 8750 to use less power than the quad-core X4 9850 CPU but the results are better than I expected… I could see the X3 line making a good choice for a high performance yet lower power HTPC box.”
“Another part of that value comes in the platform you can get with an AMD processor that you can't with Intel's own chipsets. The AMD 780G chipset is still our favorite option for integrated graphics solutions and if you are building a second system or one for family I really think the motherboard offers more than adequate performance for everyday use and general gaming.

Ready for a performance boost over single and dual-core processors? AMD Phenom™ X3 triple-core processors offer three processing cores on a single chip, plus cutting-edge features and capabilities for next-generation applications.
FOR BUSINESS
AMD Phenom™ X3 Triple-Core Processors
True multi-core performance for the way businesses multi-task today, and for the next-generation applications employees will need in the near future. Stable commercial AMD Phenom™X3 8000 Series processors offer industry-leading platform stability and longevity, investment protection, and the exceptional performance you expect from AMD. Plus, unique features for energy efficiency.
AMD Phenom™ X3 Triple-Core Processors
Do more than dual-core. AMD Phenom™ X3 8000 Series processors offer outstanding performance on a balanced suite of applications, as compared to AMD Athlon™X2 dual-core processors. Get added performance for multitasking, HD entertainment, content creation, and gaming applications.

You live at the forefront of technology, and you won't settle for less from your favorite software. That's why AMD is proud to bring you the AMD Athlon 64 processor, with AMD64 technology for dramatically higher performance and built-in support for future 64-bit applications - even running 32- and 64-bit software at... MoreYou live at the forefront of technology, and you won't settle for less from your favorite software. That's why AMD is proud to bring you the AMD Athlon 64 processor, with AMD64 technology for dramatically higher performance and built-in support for future 64-bit applications - even running 32- and 64-bit software at the same time. Maximize system efficiency and stay ahead of the curve with the technically superior PC processor, packed with advances such as HyperTransport technology and an integrated DDR memory controller. Whether it is for business, school or play, with the AMD Athlon 64 processor, you can address your current and future computing needs.

As the latest software applications offer new features and cutting-edge capabilities, processor designers need to stay ahead of those demands. But these days, increasing processor performance isn’t enough. Computers need to run faster, cooler, take up less space, and use less energy.
The Multi-Core Solution
Multi-core processing helps address these challenges. With the power of two or more processors on a single chip, AMD’s true multi-core processors deliver industry-leading performance and unique features that help systems run cooler and more efficient.
Next-Generation Software and True Multi-tasking
The evolution of AMD’s multi-core design has allowed for increased performance and higher productivity to meet the needs of next-generation applications. AMD multi-core processors also offer true multi-tasking capabilities. Users can simultaneously run multiple complex applications and successfully complete more tasks in a shorter amount of time.
And, because they put more processing power into a smaller package, AMD multi-core processors help enable smaller form factors—including:
· Thin-and-light notebook PCs that run cooler and quieter
· Space-saving, high-performance desktop PCs
· Server infrastructures with a smaller footprint, reduced cooling needs, and energy efficiency that can improve TCO

The Intel Atom processor N270Ω, implemented in 45nm technology, is power-optimized and delivers robust performance-per-watt for cost-effective embedded solutions. Featuring extended lifecycle support, this processor offers an excellent solution for embedded market segments such as digital signage, interactive clients, thin clients, digital security, residential gateways, print imaging, and commercial and industrial control. The processor remains software compatible with previous 32-bit Intel architecture and complementary silicon.This single-core processor is validated with the mobile Intel 945GSE Express Chipset, consisting of the Intel 82945GSE Graphics Memory Controller Hub and Intel I/O Controller Hub 7-M. The chipset features power-efficient graphics with an integrated 32-bit 3D graphics engine based on Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 architecture with SDVO, LVDS, CRT, and TV-Out display ports. It provides rich I/O capabilities and flexibility via high-bandwidth interfaces such as PCI Express, PCI, Serial ATA, and Hi-Speed USB 2.0 connectivity.Product highlights•Intel Atom processor N270 at 1.6 GHz core speed with 533 MHz AGTL+ front-side bus and 2.5 watts thermal design power•Intel hafnium-based 45nm Hi-k metal gate silicon process technology reduces power consumption, increases switching speed, and significantly increases transistor density over previous 65nm technology •Intel Hyper-Threading Technology provides high performance-per-watt efficiency in an in-order pipeline and increased system responsiveness in multi-tasking environments. One execution core is seen as two logical processors, and parallel threads are executed on a single core with shared resources •Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology reduces average system power consumption

Stream computing harnesses the tremendous processing power of the graphics processor unit (GPU) for high-performance, data-intensive computations over a wide range of scientific, business and consumer applications.
In stream computing, operations are applied in parallel through a SIMD architecture to a given data set, or stream of data. To take advantage of the GPU’s SIMD architecture and the hundreds of parallel compute cores it provides, AMD Stream has developed a full software stack of development tools for both 32-bit and 64-bit Linux and Windows operating systems; the AMD Stream SDK. AMD Stream is also porting many common math library functions from the AMD ACML package to the GPU to support compute-intensive applications.
Along with leading 3rd party industry partners and academic institutions worldwide, AMD Stream is building a complete stream computing ecosystem, one that delivers the performance, applications, software and tools necessary to turn AMD's low-cost stream computing vision into reality.
Characteristics of stream computing:
§ Enable new applications on new architectures
§ Parallel problems other than graphics that map well on GPU architecture
§ Transition from fixed function to programmable pipelines
§ Various proof points in research and industry under the name GPGPU

Ready for a performance boost over single and dual-core processors? AMD Phenom™ X3 triple-core processors offer three processing cores on a single chip, plus cutting-edge features and capabilities for next-generation applications.
FOR BUSINESS
AMD Phenom™ X3 Triple-Core Processors
True multi-core performance for the way businesses multi-task today, and for the next-generation applications employees will need in the near future. Stable commercial AMD Phenom™X3 8000 Series processors offer industry-leading platform stability and longevity, investment protection, and the exceptional performance you expect from AMD. Plus, unique features for energy efficiency.
FOR HOME
AMD Phenom™ X3 Triple-Core Processors
Do more than dual-core. AMD Phenom™ X3 8000 Series processors offer outstanding performance on a balanced suite of applications, as compared to AMD Athlon™X2 dual-core processors. Get added performance for multitasking, HD entertainment, content creation, and gaming applications

Quad-Core AMD Opteron™ Processors
Deliver industry leading power efficiency and virtualization with balanced performance
When it comes to the IT needs of today’s businesses, Quad-Core AMD Opteron™ processors with Direct Connect Architecture offer a compelling solution. They deliver industry-leading performance within a consistent footprint and thermal envelopes.
AMD Opteron processors also enable stable, long-term server and workstation solutions with industry-leading performance and energy efficiency. They’re designed to simplify your IT management — now and in the future.
Optimal VirtualizationFeaturing AMD Virtualization™ (AMD-V™) technology with Rapid Virtualization Indexing, Quad-Core AMD Opteron processors provide a balanced approach to improve virtualization efficiency, enabling more virtual machines to run per server for server consolidation and improved manageability. Increased performance for many virtual workloads allows for a higher performing, more flexible virtual environments with little or no performance compromise. AMD-V Extended Migration provides full live migration compatibility from single-core through quad-core processor solutions enabling a more reliable, more adaptable IT environment.
Industry Leading Power EfficencyQuad-Core AMD Opteron processors are designed to deliver industry-leading power efficiency, thanks to Enhanced AMD PowerNow!™ technology and the addition of innovative AMD CoolCore™ Technology. These innovations are designed to reduce total cost of ownership (TCO), data center power needs, and cooling costs by lowering the energy consumption of your IT infrastructure. Quad-Core AMD Opteron processors deliver performance-on-demand capabilities for optimum performance-per-watt and power savings and optimize performance and power to match the compute workloads of each core, minimizing processor heat and energy consumption.
Superior Investment ProtectionBy leveraging AMD’s Common Core Strategy and Same Socket Technology, Quad-Core AMD Opteron processors are designed to minimize changes to your software and data center infrastructure to protect your IT investment and simplify IT management. AMD’s Common Core Strategy eases technology transitions, can reduce maintenance costs, and helps preserve your IT software image by allowing for fewer upgrade disruptions. Same socket technology enables seamless hardware upgrades by maintaining consistent thermal envelopes across multiple CPU generations to help hardware longevity and performance per watt, while easing facilities planning. AMD plans include a stable consistent roadmap and well-timed transitions to match true enterprise environments and help minimize your IT TCO.

Outstanding PerformanceQuad-Core AMD Opteron processors provide outstanding performance and power efficiency and can increase performance-per-watt to improve IT responsiveness while maintaining business costs.
Quad-Core AMD Opteron processors with Direct Connect Architecture are designed for optimum multi-threaded application performance. We start with a native quad-core design — featuring four cores on a single piece of silicon for more efficient data sharing — and add an enhanced cache structure and integrated memory controller designed to sustain multi-threaded application throughput. Direct Connect Architecture is a tested and proven architecture — in market since 2003, and available only from AMD.

Privacy Policy for www.techymonitor1.blogspot.com

If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at techymonitor@gmail.com.

At www.techymonitor1.blogspot.com, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by www.techymonitor.blogspot.com and how it is used.

Log Files
Like many other Web sites, www.techymonitor1.blogspot.com makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.

Cookies and Web Beacons
www.techymonitor.blogspot.com does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.

DoubleClick DART Cookie
.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on your site.
.:: Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to your users based on their visit to your sites and other sites on the Internet.
.:: Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL - http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html

Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include ....
Google Adsense


These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on www.techymonitor.blogspot.com send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.

www.techymonitor1.blogspot.com has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.

You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. www.techymonitor1.blogspot.com's privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.

If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites.

Intel’s Core 2 Q9300 processor is fabricated using the 45nm Penryn process that we first saw in Benny's review of the Intel Core 2 Quad QX9650, which is a lovely CPU if you don't mind forking out £480. Thankfullly, the Penryn process is also used in more down-to-earth CPUs such as the dual core E8500, which is where things get interesting for most of us.
When we reviewed the E8500 in March 2008 it had a price of £182 but since then we’ve seen a surprising amount of price compression among the Intel dual cores. The 3.16GHz E8500 has dropped to £123, the 3.0GHz E8400 is £110 and the 2.66GHz E8200 is priced at £106. Who the heck would buy a £106 processor when you can get the next speed bump for only £4 more?

This reduction in price for the Wolfdale dual core Penryns leaves the £150+ price bracket open for affordable Yorkfield quad core processors which is where the Core 2 Quad Q9300 comes into the equation. It has a relatively slow clock speed of 2.50GHz which is achieved by a 7.5x multiplier and a 333MHz/1,333MHz front side bus which is matched by a price of £173. Now that’s cheap for a Yorkfield as faster models shoot past £200 and head for £390 with the Q9550 and upwards to £480 for the aforementioned QX9650.
Things aren’t entirely as they might appear, though, as most Yorkfields have 12MB of L2 cache with 6MB for each core while the Q9300 only has 6MB with 3MB per core. The rest of the features are just as you’d expect from a Penryn which is a significant advance from the 65nm Kentsfield including support for the SSE4.1 instruction set. The move to the 45nm process has allowed Intel to reduce the core voltage from a nominal 1.3V to 1.2V, which in turn reduces the TDP from 105W to 95W.


This leads us to wonder how the Q9300 compares with the Core 2 Q6600 which is our absolute favourite processor in the whole of overclockdom. We’ve had our sample of Q6600 for the best part of a year and it’s done sterling service overclocking from its standard speed of 2.4GHz to the dizzy heights of 3.4GHz. Scour the web and the Q6600 crops up time and time again as a champ of a processor and its appeal isn’t hurt one little bit by price cuts that have taken it below £120. Indeed, Intel is taking the fight to the 65nm AMD Phenom by slashing the prices of its own 65nm models and Q6600 is in the thick of that particular battle. Moreover, the Q6600 wipes the floor with Phenom; period.
So, with AMD out of the equation, with the Q9300 we wanted to know how the £117 Q6600 compares to this new £173 chip. For starters, and most obviously, you get an extra 100MHz with Q9300 but that’s certainly not worth an extra £56.