AMD debuts 890GX chipset with Radeon HD 4290 integrated graphics, ready for 6-core CPUs

While Intel is busy at CeBIT unveiling new Atom processors and a revamped Classmate PC, AMD is taking the opportunity to roll out a new desktop chipset that the company claims to be "exceptionally energy efficient." The 890GX is paired with ATI Radeon HD 4290 integrated graphics, which supports Direct X 10.1. As you might expect, the graphics solution can't really handle gaming at all, but is better at high-def video playback, according to PC World's testing. It also can make use of AMD's Hybrid CrossFire technology if you pair it with a Radeon HD 5450 graphics card.

The chipset also supports some of the latest technologies, including SATA 3.0 6Gbps and USB 3.0. Compatible motherboards can also handle a pair of Radeon graphics cards in CrossFireX configuration. Speaking of which, AMD partners are already displaying the first AMD 890GX motherboards at CeBIT, including Asus, ECS, and Gigabyte.

While AMD is promoting this chipset for home theater PCs that don't need discrete graphics, the 890GX can handle the company's forthcoming six-core Phenom II X6 processors. Though none has been announced yet, AMD says desktops using the 890GX will begin appearing in the coming weeks.