AMD has released what is probably the last Phenom II processor before the new architectures Llano and Bulldozer arrive. To keep up as much as possible with Intel’s broad Sandy Bridge assortment AMD has rolled out a new quad-core flagship in the form of Phenom II X4 980 Black Edition that runs at 3.7 GHz.
The new processors build on the same Deneb core as previous quad-core Phenom II processors. This means a nominal clock frequency without turbo and four cores. Phenom II X4 980 Black Edition operates at 3.7 GHz and is the highest clocked Phenom II processor from AMD today. The cache weighs in at 8MB and the processor has an integrated DDR3 dual-channel memory controller.
Being made with 45nm technology the processor has a specified TDP at 125 watt and slides into AMD’s Socket AM3 platform. As a Black Edition th multipliers are unlocked and should be capable of 4 GHz on air, which would be disappointing otherwise considering the high stock frequency.
AMD Phenom II X4 980 Black Edition
- Deneb (758 miljoner transistors)
- 45nm node
- Four cores at 3.7 GHz
- 6MB L3 cache, 2MB L2 cache (512KB per core)
- Unlocked multipliers
- 125W TDP
- Socket AM3
As expected performance isn’t quite up to threatening Intel’s Sandy Bridge platform and even if Phenom II X4 980 Black Edition is not a bad processor for the money the perhaps most eciting about it is that we are getting very close to 4 GHz from factory.
AMD is keeping us waiting for AMD A series (Llano APU) and AMD FX series (octo-core Bulldozer) that will come along this summer. Those of you who are eager to get some new AMD chips before that can check out Phenom II X4 980 Black Edition that sells for around 180€. Reviews below;
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