Date: 05/06/2009

With new desktop processors AMD sharpens focus on desktop PC market

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has launched two new dual-core desktop processors. They are Athlon II X2 250 processor and Phenom II X2 550 Black Edition processor. PC users can now experience AMD platform technology, codenamed "Dragon," with dual-, triple- and quad-core configurations.

AMD Athlon II processor features are utilized by new Microsoft OS Windows 7(still under wraps) to produce optimal performance. Athlon II dual-core processors, which are fabricated using 45nm node are more power-efficient while working in different operating modes compared to previous versions.

While AMD is continuously focusing on desktop PC market, but Intel is not prioritizing the desktop market the way it has done in earlier years. Intel is more focused on Atom and such processors for mobile Internet devices and net-books. The new area of focus for Intel now is embedded and portable computing market.

Intel has acquired embedded software vendor WindRiver Systems and stated its new strategy is to grow its processor and software presence outside the traditional PC and server market segments into embedded systems and mobile handheld devices

However the race in server processor market between AMD and Intel has taken a new position with AMD recently announcing 6-core Opteron with impressive industry-best performance and Intel is expected to release a better server processor in the coming months.

AMD calls its new six-core Opteron codenamed Istanbul as, another delightful workhorse.