X-bit labs

AMD Unveils Second “Black Edition” Microprocessor for Enthusiasts.

Category: CPU

by Anton Shilov

[ 09/25/2007 | 06:54 PM ]

Advanced Micro Devices has announced its new central processing unit (CPU) that is officially aimed at enthusiasts and gamers who dare to overclock and tweak their systems. The new processor from the Black Edition lineup comes with unlocked multiplier, which allows to easily set it working at higher clock-speed, getting additional performance virtually for free.

“The AMD Athlon 64 X2 processor 5000+ Black Edition is an affordably-priced, dual-core processor targeted to the consumer channel, boasting a customizable clock multiplier for tunable performance, enabling mainstream end-users to reap the benefits of setting their own speed limits,” a statement by the world’s largest maker of x86 central processing units maker reads.

AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition microprocessor works at 2.60GHz, features dual-channel DDR2 memory controller, 1MB of level-two cache (512KB per core) and is compatible with socket AM2 mainboards featuring 1000MHz HyperTransport bus. The chip has 65W thermal design power and is made using 65nm process technology.

The customizable clock multiplier and auto-adjustable memory frequency of the new chip enables amateurs and value-conscious enthusiasts to maximize the performance of their desktop computers without substantial hassles. Typically enthusiasts have to increase base HyperTransport bus speed from default 200MHz, which eventually causes not only CPU clock-speed boost, but also alters HT bus and memory frequency, meaning that other components apart from the microprocessor also should be able to handle increased speeds. Previously customizable clock multiplier were only available on high-end AMD Athlon 64 FX processors that could retail for as much as $1000 per chip.

Given that not all enthusiasts may want to invest additional money into high-end mainboard, memory modules and spend additional time ensuring that all components work well enough, AMD’s Black Edition processors Athlon 64 X2 6400+ and 5000+ do seem to be appealing solutions for overclocking. Since nowadays computer enthusiasts and gamers tend to acquire CPUs from Intel Corp., AMD crucially needs to attract attention of those groups with attractive options.

AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition processors will only be available in channel market. The chips will come as processor-in-box (PIB) package, but without cooling systems. The Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition microprocessors cost $136 in 1000-unit quantities, up slightly from $125, the cost of typical model 5000+.