Intel Corp. has already begun producing its next-generation “Arrandale” and “Clarkdale” processors using 32nm fabrication technology. In early December the world’s largest maker of chips will initiate shipments of its new processors in order to ensure that end-users will be able to buy new systems on their base starting early January, 2010.

Intel will begin sales of its Core i3, Core i5 and Pentium processors based on Clarkdale design on the 10^th of December, 2009, to distributors, resellers and retailers, who may then sell central processing units, mainboards based on Intel Q57, Intel H55 and Intel H57 as well as other components to OEMs and other customers. Intel’s goal is to have systems based on the new chips available for sale by January 7, 2010, a source with knowledge of the matter said.

Intel Clarkdale are dual-core microprocessors based on Westmere micro-architecture with 4MB of cache, Hyper-Threading, dual-channel DDR3 memory controllers and integrated graphics cores. Arrandale are similar chips aimed at mobile computers. Both Arrandale and Clarkdale are essentially multi-chip modules featuring one dual-core processor made using 32nm fabrication process and graphics and other system logic core produced at 45nm node. It is highly likely that the new processors will be launched on the same day - on January 7, 2010 - at the Consumer Electronics Show.

The desktop-oriented Clarkdale chips, which will be sold under Core i5, Core i3 and Pentium brands, will work at up to 3.46GHz, will sport Hyper-Threading technology and will consume just about 73W, with the exception of Core i5 661, which will feature 900MHz graphics core and 87W thermal envelope. The chips will be compatible with LGA1156 infrastructure provided that BIOS versions support the new chips.

Specifications of mobile Arrandale microprocessors are unclear, but it is known that they will be sold under Intel Core i5 and Core i7 monikers. In total, there will be seven different processor models introduced during the currently planned launch window:

• Intel Core i7: 620M, 640LM, 620LM, 640UM, 620UM
• Intel Core i5: 540M and i5-520M

While no specifications are clear, it is highly likely that the chips will differ by power consumption, performance and certain capabilities. 

Since Arrandale/Clarkdale central processing units (CPUs) have integrated memory controller, graphics core as well as PCI Express interconnection inside, there will be no need for GMCH (or North Bridge) on the mainboard. Instead, the new processors will connect directly to Intel 5-series core-logic (code-named Ibexpeak platform) controller hub (PCH) that will carry hard drive controller, wired and wireless network controllers, monitor physical interfaces, PCI controller and other input/output as well as platform-related capabilities.

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

Tags: Intel, Arrandale, Clarkdale, Westmere, 32nm