AMD plots a 64-bit multi-core processor future

 

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By Alun Williams

Posted on 15 Jun 2004 at 18:12

AMD has plotted its future with an updated roadmap - featuring multi-core processors. Specifically, it is announcing the completion of an x86 dual-core processor design for 64-bit computing.

In brief, AMD plans to deliver AMD64 dual-core products to the server market in mid-2005 (via the Opteron line). High-end desktop PCs should then see dual-core systems in the second half of 2005 (via Athlon 64 FX line).

Those who already feel overloaded with chip codenames should look away now. The 90nm dual core 'Egypt', 'Italy' and 'Denmark' systems will be appearing for 8-, 2- and 1-way server systems, respectively. And the 'Toledo' 90nm dual core will be appearing in 2H05 in the Athlon 64 FX development line.

'Because AMD has always listened to our customers, we anticipated an industry shift toward multi-tasking applications requiring the scalability that only 64-bit dual-core processors can provide,' said Dirk Meyer, executive vice president, Computation Products Group, AMD. 'That is why years ago we designed AMD64 technology from the ground up to be optimized for multiple cores.'

Squeezing ever more speed out of existing single-core designs has lead to increasing heat management problems. To enable future speed ramps has necessitated a switch to multi-core designs - the recombination of multiply managed single processors.

Indeed, AMD emphasises the long term planning behind the move to dual-core processing, claiming development work first got underway in 1999. It also states that 'the industry is approaching the day when 32-bit-only systems or 32-bit-only dual-core processors will become obsolete'.

The full roadmap is to be taken with a 90nm pinch of salt, of course - the best laid plans of man gang awry, and processor roadmaps are no exception. Technological developments can never be plotted with full certainty and, despite the best development efforts, milestones are not always met...

However, you can read AMD's current view of the future online - you can find the official roadmap on the company's website.