AMD chips save energy

Chips will let smaller desktop systems reduce their power consumption

AMD has announced new desktop processors designed to reduce system power consumption. The chips will enable smaller desktop systems that save power without compromising performance, according to the company.

The new processors are versions of AMD’s dual-core Athlon 64 X2, Athlon 64 and low-cost Sempron processors. AMD said the processors could consume as little as 14W when running typical Windows workloads, compared with up to 89W for current Athlons. Bob Brewer, corporate vice-president of AMD’s desktop business, said the new chips “can help equipment makers deliver small, sleek PC designs that save energy.”

The chips are split into a 65W range for standard desktops and a 35W range for smaller models. The 65W range comprises Athlon 64 X2 chips only while the 35W parts are a mixture of Athlon 64 X2, Athlon 64 and Sempron. The processors are expected to appear in systems later this year and the top-end Athlon 64 X2 4800+ will cost $671 (£360).