X-bit labs

Intel’s First Nehalem Processors for Desktops Set to Emerge in Q4 2008.

Category: CPU

by Anton Shilov

[ 10/15/2007 | 03:59 PM ]

Intel’s code-named Nehalem processors first emerged in long-term Intel’s roadmap back in 2002 and, as it turns out now, five years later, the actual chips based on the Nehalem micro-architecture will emerge in the fourth quarter of 2008. But one thing those initial Nehalem processors not expected to deliver is integrated graphics core.

Intel’s Nehalem processors are based on the brand new micro-architecture that is not only more efficient and advanced compared to Intel Core 2, it is also feature a new multi-threading technology, which will allow to virtually double the amount of cores available. But besides integrated memory controller and a new type of processor bus called Intel Quick Path Interconnect (QPI), the Nehalem promises very high customizability. For example, Intel can add a built-in graphics core into Nehalem central processing units and alter the number of memory controller channels besides changing the number of operating processing engines.

The first implementation of Nehalem micro-architecture will be code-named Intel Bloomfield central processing unit (CPU), according to sources familiar with Intel Corp.’s plans. The chip will have two or four cores, depending on positioning, and will be able to process up to eight threads simultaneously thanks to a technology similar to Intel’s Hyper-Threading.

Bloomfield chips will be available for extreme desktops/workstations, high-performance desktops and mainstream desktops (dual-core version), whereas Nehalem EP processors will be aimed at dual-processor (DP) and uni-processor servers. All the chips are currently projected to arrive in Q4 2008.

For some reason, sources close to Intel Corp. currently have no information regarding already announced octa-core microprocessors as well as CPUs with integrated graphics cores, which are also based on the Nehalem micro-architecture. While Paul Otellini, Intel’s chief executive, implied at Intel Developer Forum that microprocessors with built-in graphics cores will be available in 2009, the octa-core chips were promised to be “shipped” in 2008.

Intel Corp.’s officials did not comment on the news-story.