'44 Quad-Core processors deliver a performance of 9000 Pentium Pro Processors', Intel

Just before the Super Computing 2006(SC06) opens its curtains on November 11, Intel has announced new server cluster software tools and has provided the much-sought information about its new quad-core processor Clovertown, which is scheduled to debut on November 12.

Intel has also commented that 44 quad-core Xeon 5300 series processors provide a performance of about 9000 Pentium Pro processors, which the company launched ten years ago.

The 1996 platform consumed 1500 square feet of floor area and consumed a massive power of 800,000 watts. On the other hand, the quad-core chips fit in a floor space of about 16 square feet and consume 10,000 watts.

Intel will launch three 'regular' Clovertown Processors and one 'extreme' version of the processor.

The three 'regular' versions include:

The E5310 (1.6 GHz, FSB1066, 8 MB L2 cache) priced at $455

The E5320 (1.86 GHz, FSB1066, 8 MB L2 cache) priced at $690

The E5345 (2.33 GHz, FSB1333, 8 MB L2 cache) priced at $851

In addition, the 'extreme' version processor will be:

The X5355 (2.66GHz, FSB1333, 8 MB L2 cache)

The main issue for Intel at this time is the TDP (thermal power design) rating for its processors as mostly all the processors built by Intel consume a lot of power. The X5355 has a TDP rating of 120 watts while all other Clovertown processors have a 80 Watt TDP rating.

Intel plans to release low-power processors in early 2007. The L5310 will have a TDP rating of 50 Watts and a clock speed of 1.60 GHz.

Via: tgdaily