AMD adds five new processors to six-core Opteron lineup

Today AMD added five new processors to the six-core Opteron lineup, offering customers more performance with less power consumption.

The lineup consists of three six-core Opteron HE processors based on 45nm technology. These chips have a TDP of 55W, compared to between 75W and 105W for other models. These processors can be used in 2-, 4- and 8-processors servers.

• 2.0GHz Six-Core Opteron 2423 HE - $455
• 2.1GHz Six-Core Opteron 2425 HE - $523
• 2.1GHz Six-Core Opteron 8425 HE - $1,514

Note: Prices based on 1,000 unit trays as per latest price list.

Lowering power consumption doesn't just lower energy bills, it also means less cooling and allows more servers to be packed together.

Interested in an six-core Opteron HE system? Check out the ProLiant G6 from Hewlett-Packard. I expect other vendors to get products based on these processors out soon.

Also released is two six-core Opteron SE processors. These have a TDP of 105W and are designed for users who value performance over power consumption.

• 2.8GHz Six-Core Opteron SE 8439 - $2,649
• 2.8GHz Six-Core Opteron SE 2439 - $1,019

Not cheap, but if you you want the power and have the cash ...

Be aware that these six-core processors are AMDs way of putting some temporary pressure on Intel. I'd expect Intel to respond in due course.