Intel Xeon to get a new stepping

Posted on Wednesday, June 13 2007 @ 4:11 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
Intel's dual and quad-core Xeon 5100 "Woodcrest" and 5300 "Clovertown" processors will get a stepping change to G0. This new stepping features better energy efficiency and virtualization enhancements.

DailyTech writes:

Stepping G0 reduces power consumption during C1E halt states. Intel does not state how much less power stepping G0 processors consume in idle states except “some amount.” Intel improves VT technology in stepping G0.

The enhancements include:
  • APIC Task Priority Register (TPR) Virtualization
  • NMI-window exiting
  • Advanced VM-exit information for INS & OUTS
  • All stepping G0 processors will receive new CPUIDs. The Clovertown CPUID will change from 06F7 to 06FB while Woodcrest changes from 06F6 to 06FB. Stepping G0 processors will also receive new SSPEC numbers.

    The new G0 stepping only requires a BIOS update to work properly.


    About the Author

    Thomas De Maesschalck

    Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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