Core Technologies Ltd. - Advanced IT Distribution, Real Value Added

Intel Unveils Core i7 Processors - 'Tylersburg' Server Platform on the Horizon
Should you consider upgrading?

Octal-core desktop processors are just around the corner with the recent unveiling of Intel's 'Nehalem' class processors, which it has branded as "Core i7". The new architecture brings a number of design changes and is being called the most remarkable advancement of the CPU since 'Out of Order' process scheduling was introduced to the Pentium (Pentium Pro).

Major improvements include:

• Support for 2 to 8 CPU cores, with the return of Hyper Threading
• Integrated Memory Controller
• Introduction of Intel QuickPath interconnect (Eliminates/Replaces Front Side Bus)
• 12+ MegaBytes of Level 3 Cache with Shared and Inclusive capability
• Improved temperature control with incremental changes to clock frequency
• Dynamic Overclocking of CPU cores
• Support for 3 memory channels (Up to 24GB of RAM per chip)
• SSE 4.2 instruction set
• 45nm Hi-K die size
• Significant performance increase
• Nahalem, as a platform will see the introduction of Intel's Hybrid CPU / GPU, code named 'Larabee'.

The Server version of Corei7 is code named 'Tylersburg'. It supports two Nehalem processors, providing up to 16 CPU cores. With its larger memory capability, this platform is exceptionally suited for Virtualization. But should you wait before upgrading?

This writer believes so. Wait for 'Sandy Bridge', which is the code name for the next generation of Intel processors due out sometime in 2009-2010.

Sandy Bridge will be an even bigger transition, and is expected to include its Graphics Processor on the same die. It will also introduce the 32nm die process, as well as an advanced form of SSE called AVX (Advanced Vector Extension).

If possible, most organizations should hold off on making purchases until micro architectures like Sandy Bridge are available and proven. Making a purchase now could see you significantly behind the technological curve in just 2 years time.