AMD unveils its plans

X-bit Labs published a bunch of information about AMD's plans for the near-future. Later this month we can expect the Perseus platform, this is a competitor for Intel's vPro platform. It will feature dual, triple and quad-core AMD K8 and K10 processors, 780 series IGP chipsets and optional R6xx series graphics cards in Hybrid Graphics mode. Another feature of the platform is the Hardcastle security and management technology.

In April we can expect the Cartwheel platform and the mobile Puma platform is slated for June.

After that in the first half of April AMD is going to introduce a few quad-core Phenom processor models based on B3 core stepping and free from the notorious TLB bug. We should see Phenom 9650 and Phenom 9550 working at 2.3 and 2.2GHz frequencies respectively. At the same time the first triple-core Phenom 8600 and Phenom 8400 processor should also come out. They will at first be based on B2 core stepping and work at 2.3 and 2.1GHz frequencies respectively. All these four new processors will feature 95W TDP.

The second half of April will be remarkable due to upcoming Cartwheel platform launch that should represent mainstream performance, immersive HD and upgradeability. This platform is in fact available since the launch of 780 chipset series, because it uses mainboards based on these chipsets, processors and optional R6XX graphics cards. However, the key feature of the upcoming Cartwheel platform is in fact AMD LIVE! Technology support offering media-centric computing experience that connects and extends the digital world by means of special software.

In May AMD is going to continue expanding the frequency potential of their quad- and triple-core processors. They are expected to launch quad-core Phenom 9850 with 2.5GHz frequency and 125W TDP and Phenom 9750 with 2.4GHz nominal frequency and 95W TDP. New triple-core CPUs, just like their quad-core counterparts will start using B3 core stepping. As for the particular CPU models, we should see Phenom 8750, Phenom 8650 and Phenom 8450 with 95W TDP and 2.4, 2.3 and 2.1GHz respective frequencies.

The new mobile Puma platform is scheduled to be launched in June. It is expected to ensure best-in-class experience and performance-per-watt for consumer/commercial notebook users. Puma will include a new "Griffin" dual-core processor, an RS780M chipset with DirectX 10-class integrated graphics, a 55nm M8x mobile graphics processor, and support for the PC management software. The platform will also feature PowerXpress technology which allows the system to switch between external and integrated graphics when changing between AC and DC power without the need for a reboot. Also, Hybrid CrossfireX allows the integrated graphics hardware to work in tandem with the separate graphics controller to offer more power for gamers.