Intel Core i7 chip is Fast!

by Frank Jovine on 11/03/2008 in Computers, Hardware

Today, expect more reviews on the new Intel Core i7 processors according to CNet.com.

Core i7 processors expected to launch later this month include 2.66GHz (Core i7-920) and 3.20GHz (Core i7-965) versions. Prices will range roughly between $285 and just under $1,000.

The Nehalem/Core i7 architecture will scale from two to eight processor cores, have faster chip-to-chip communication (Intel calls this technology QuickPath), do a better job of adjusting performance levels to suit power needs, and have a higher level of integration (more logic will be built directly onto the processor die).

Other salient features include more scalable memory (each processor will have its own dedicated memory), the ability to do more stuff simultaneously (up to 16 threads with simultaneous multi-threading), and new instructions to increase efficiency (called SSE4.2 instructions).

And who’s going to buy i7 systems initially? Here’s what CNET Reviews editor Rich Brown says: “We don’t expect mainstream users will adopt Core i7…at first, at least until the motherboard prices come down.”

Brown continues: “In the short term, it will benefit gamers and digital media types. The initial systems will be gaming oriented.”

Source: CNet