Advanced Micro Devices plans to release two versions of its code-named Zacate processors for desktop computers later this year. The parts will have similar thermal design power (TDP), but different amount of x86 cores based on Bobcat architecture.

For low-power desktops, which are often called nettops, and thin clients AMD will offer dual-core Zacate E350 and single-core Zacate E240 microprocessors with integrated DirectX 11 graphics core with UVD 3.0 video engine, single-channel PC3-10600 (DDR 1333MHz) memory controller and 18W TDP, according to sources familiar with AMD's plans. The chips will come in BGA FT1 package and will be soldered to mainboards.

AMD Brazos platform for desktops will consist of AMD Fusion accelerated processing unit (APU) code-named Zacate as well as code-named Hudson D1 fusion controller hub, which will connect to processor using PCI Express 2.0 x4 bus and will support 4 PCIe x1 ports, PCI bus, 6 Serial ATA-300 ports, 14 USB 2.0 ports as well as integrated clock-generator. The part does not support RAID, Gigabit Ethernet and other capabilities, hence, Brazos platform will hardly be suitable for commercial desktops without additional chips.

It is noteworthy that at present AMD itself still calls its forthcoming APUs based on the Ontario design with code-names and does not announce official clock-speeds for CPU and GPU cores despite of the fact that it had already set their model numbers. Such secrecy very likely confirms that the Sunnyvale, California-based company plans to introduce a new brand-name for its Zacate and Ontario microprocessors.

AMD plans to ramp up production of Ontario and Zacate microprocessors later this year and plans to launch the Brazos platform supporting both central processing units early next year. It is also expected that AMD partners will introduce the first devices powered by the new technology early in 2011.

AMD did not comment on the news-story.

Tags: AMD, Fusion, zacate, Ontario, Brazos, 40nm,