This summer, AMD will announce K10, its first major architecture change since the introduction of the K8 architecture in 2003. This new architecture will first make an appearance with the introduction of the Barcelona-family server processors. K10 features a native quad-core design that incorporates shared-L3 cache, HyperTransport-3 support and backwards functionality with AM2 motherboards. The original K10 desktop and server processors will debut on the 65nm architecture while in the second half of 2008, AMD will begin to migrate its K10 architecture to the 45nm node. AMD explicitly mentions that its 45nm process technology utilizes silicon-on-insulator (Intel's 45nm process node, slated for introduction later this year, uses conventional CMOS process technology).
The halo AMD 45nm chip, Deneb FX, shares the same functionality as its 65nm counterpart, Agena. Both families incorporate native quad-core designs but Deneb FX (probably the first AM3 processor) goes one step further, adding support for DDR3 on the integrated memory controller. However, the bulk of AMD's 45nm quad-core offerings will come with the Deneb (non-FX) family. AMD engineers claim the AM3 alluded to in 2006 is not the same AM3 referenced in the 2008 launch schedule: "At the time AM3 was the likely candidate to become AM2+. [AMD] wanted to keep the socket name associated with DDR2 memory and backwards compatibility, but AM3 emphasizes DDR3 support."
After Deneb, and closer to 2009, AMD's guidance states that Propus (2 cores, 45nm, shared L3 cache, AM3 package) and Regor will replace the 65nm Kuma and Rana mid-range products. Regor is identical to Propus, but will not include shared-L3 cache support. Sargas, on the other hand, is an optical shrink of the 65nm Spica core, with the addition of DDR3 support and AM3 packaging. AMD's ultra-low end Sparta-family, slated for introduction this year to replace the Manila-family Semprons, has no successor.
News source: DailyTech
17 Comments - Add comment