Intel 45nm processors launched - 16 chips released

Intel has just released 15 server processors and one new high-end desktop processor. All of these new Xeon and Core 2 Extreme processors are manufactured on Intel's new 45nm manufacturing process. In addition to increasing computer performance and saving energy use, these processors also eliminate eco-unfriendly lead and, in 2008, halogen materials.

Called the biggest transistor advancements in 40 years by Intel Co-Founder Gordon Moore, the processors are the first to use Intel's Hafnium-based high-k metal gate (Hi-k) formula for the hundreds of millions of 45nm transistors inside these processors.

Combining these two advancements with new processor features enables Intel to continue delivering faster and more energy-efficient processors that are better for the environment. The breakthroughs clear the path for Intel to design products that are 25 percent smaller than previous versions and, thus, more cost-effective, as well as the ability next year to pursue new ultra mobile and consumer electronics "system on chip" opportunities.

The new 45nm (a nanometer is 1 billionth of a meter) processors boast nearly twice the transistor density of previous chips built on the company's 65nm technology – that is up to 820 million transistors for quad-core processors, each using Intel's new formula.

For high-end desktop users Intel has released the 45nm quad-core Core 2 Extreme QX9650 processor. This chip is clocked at 3GHz and features a 130W thermal design power. It has 12MB L2 cache and features a 1333MHz FSB. In 1,000 unit quantities the processor costs $999. For servers Intel released fifteen chips clocked between 1.96GHz and 3.2GHz with prices ranging from $177 to $1,279. Here's a look at the specifications and features of Intel's new 45nm chips: