AMD Adds Second Core to Turion Notebook Chip

On May 17, Advanced Micro Devices launched a dual-core version of its mobile Turion chip, bringing its brand of dual-core technology to thin-and-light notebooks. In addition, the company said it had begun shipping a mobile Sempron chip, upgraded to include 64-bit capabilities.

Both chips will be complemented by a forthcoming "whitebook" logo program, which will provide buyers of notebooks from resellers and second-tier vendors some assurance that the systems have met AMDs standards of quality and can be considered viable competitors to the top-tier OEM products.

AMDs new AMD Turion 64 X2 models will range in speed from 1.6 to 2.0 GHz, using a series of abstract "model numbers" to indicate performance. Four chips were unveiled: the 1.6GHz TL-50, the 1.6GHz TL-52, the 1.8GHz TL-56 and the 2.0GHz TL-60, ranging in price from $184 to $354 in 1,000-unit lots. Prices and speeds for the new mobile Semprons were not available at press time.

With the addition of the second core, the Turion 64 X2 is now a more distinct product offering from its cousin, the Sempron, which will remain a single-core part, according to David Rooney, a division marketing manager for AMDs mobile division.

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AMDs Turion 64 X2 will eventually replace the single-core option over the next six to nine months, according to Matt Mazzantini, also a division marketing manager for AMDs mobile products.

Enhancements to the Turion X2 include improved power management, support for AMDs Digital Media Xpress instructions, an integrated DDR-2 memory controller and a new processor package.

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