Beyond dual core: 2007 desktop CPU road map

section: common, for your questions: KezNews forum, 2.1.2007

What a difference a year makes. One year ago, we were dazed, dazzled, and beguiled by the arrival of dual-core processors. Offerings from Intel Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) had analysts, journalists, IT pros, and enthusiasts all gushing with praise for a bright new multitasking future.

Amazingly, both Intel and AMD were able to deliver on the potential of dual-core processing. Throughout 2006, desktop PCs played host to a series of processors that, while slower at the clock-speed level, were faster in real-life usage, allowing for unprecedented amounts of multitasking with minimal slowdown. (For more about both companies' current lineup of desktop CPUs, see our CPU Buyer's Guide.)

As the calendar flips to 2007, we are firmly entrenched in the world of multi-core processors. And, based upon the confidential road maps of both Intel and AMD, it is clear that dual-core CPUs are only the launching point for the future of the microprocessor. In 2007, quad cores and even eight-core CPUs will be available. By 2009, there's a good chance that sixteen-core processors will be on the market.

As we enter 2007, five key questions regarding the pending year's CPU battle are on our minds:

* Will AMD be able to continue its market-share dominance in the desktop category?
* How will Intel capitalize upon the success of Core 2?
* Will AMD be able to match the success of Intel's Core 2 processors?
* When will the market see true quad-core and even eight-core processors?
* What surprises do the chipmakers have up their sleeves?

source: computerworld

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