AMD adds Phenom, Athlon chips to lineup

Advanced Micro Devices has added new desktop processors to its chip lineup, including an upgraded quad-core chip that draws less power.

Bottom Line Telecommunications, an online vendor, is taking preorders for an updated version of the Phenom II X4 945 quad-core processor, which draws less power than its predecessor. The chip runs at 3GHz, has 8MB of cache and draws 95 watts of power, which is 30 watts less than its predecessor. It is priced at US$243 and will reach the store on July 29.

AMD also announced two new dual-core Athlon processors for mainstream desktops on Wednesday. The Athlon II X2 dual-core 245 and 240 processors are affordable chips that allows users to run mainstream applications and play games, AMD said in an e-mail statement. The chips are priced between $60 and $66, according to the company.

The Athlon II X2 245 runs at 2.9GHz, while the X2 240 processor runs at 2.8GHz. The chips include 2MB of L2 cache and draw 65 watts of power, AMD said. The chips are made using the 45-nanometer manufacturing process.

Given the current economic environment, consumers are seeking the best computing value without sacrificing the performance required to maintain their digital lifestyle,” AMD said.

AMD also offers dual-core, triple-core and quad-core chips under the Phenom and Athlon brands for desktops.