AMD announces new AMD Opteron processors, adding more choice and flexibility for leading 32- and 64-bit computing.

AMD (NYSE:AMD) has announced the addition of the AMD Opteron processor Models 846 and 146 to its lineup of evolutionary server and workstation chips. Both processors provide leading-edge 32-bit application performance while allowing businesses to transition to 64-bit applications as their needs require.

The AMD Opteron processor Model 846 for 4- to 8-way-capable servers gives the compute- and memory-intensive applications used for large databases, business processing and decision support the power, performance and reliability sought by IT managers. The scalability of the AMD Opteron processor Model 846 brings investment protection and flexibility to enterprises and high-performance compute centers requiring high-performance on 32- and 64-bit applications.

The AMD Opteron Model 146 provides large memory and scalable input-output support as well as the industry-leading performance that end users such as digital content creators and engineering professionals require in workstations. The AMD Opteron 100 Series also powers reliable entry-level servers, such as those used by small businesses and Internet and application service providers.

"The best in 32-bit and 64-bit server computing begins and ends with the AMD Opteron processor," said Marty Seyer, vice president and general manager of AMD's Microprocessor Business Unit. "By introducing these two new processors, AMD is again giving customers the industry's highest-performing x86 processor-based server for the applications they use most with the flexibility to run more powerful 64-bit applications when they choose. With the AMD Opteron processor Model 146, AMD will re-energize the workstation market."

"Oracle and AMD have been working together for the past two years to develop a flexible, low-cost computing infrastructure that significantly reduces the total cost of ownership of IT solutions," said Dave Dargo, vice president, Platform Partners, Linux and Performance, Oracle. "Oracle Database 10g on AMD Opteron processor-based systems will deliver a powerful yet cost-effective platform for enterprise grid computing."

The AMD Opteron processor Model 846 and servers based on the Model 846 are available immediately via the Validated Server Program from system builders in North America. The AMD Opteron processor Model 146 is available immediately, worldwide. Systems based on the Model 146 are expected from system builders worldwide.

The AMD Opteron processor Model 846 is priced at $3,199 in 1,000-unit quantities. The AMD Opteron processor Model 146 is priced at $669 in 1,000-unit quantities. For additional pricing information, please see www.amd.com/pricing.

The AMD Opteron processor is based on AMD's eighth-generation processor core, which marked the introduction of AMD64, the industry's first 64-bit, x86 technology implementation. This technology preserves companies' investments in 32-bit applications, while allowing a seamless transition to 64-bit computing as those companies require. The AMD Opteron processor is designed to deliver high-performance server and workstation solutions for today's most demanding enterprise applications. The processor is scalable, reliable and compatible, which can result in lower total cost of ownership. Key AMD Opteron processor innovations include an integrated memory controller, which reduces memory bottlenecks, and HyperTransport technology, which increases overall performance by removing or reducing I/O bottlenecks, increasing bandwidth and reducing latency.

Founded in 1969 and based in Sunnyvale, California, AMD (NYSE:AMD) is a global supplier of integrated circuits for the personal and networked computer and communications markets with manufacturing facilities in the United States, Europe, Japan, and Asia. AMD, a Standard & Poor's 500 company, produces microprocessors, Flash memory devices, and silicon-based solutions for communications and networking applications.