Intel due to release cutting edge 32nm processors in 2010…

The purpose of this article is to take a look at Intel’s much anticipated 32nm ‘Westmere’ CPU’s.

Before we look at the new products – we must first understand what ‘32 nanometre’ actually means. For instance Intel’s current line of processors use the highly successful 45nm (Nehalem) technology. Such technology enables these processors to run at lower voltages, cooler temperatures, and have faster memory timings than the previous generation (65nm), giving them superior performance advantages. Utilising a reduction in the nm process also allows transistors to become smaller and enables them to be placed closer together; therefore increasing possible density, cache size, and the number of cores a CPU could contain. Another advantage is the reduction in bottlenecks and memory timings/latencies. It also allows CPU manufactures to incorporate enhanced features, for example Intel® Advanced Digital Media Boost.

The significance in this – is that the new 32nm range should show increased performance, lower voltages, lower temperatures, faster clock speeds and more enhanced features. In the first quarter of 2010 Intel are to release two new chipsets. The ‘Clarkdale’, which is aimed at mainstream computing, and the ‘Arrandale’, for the mobile market. These new chips are of particular interest as they utilise a separate graphics and memory controller integrated in the CPU itself. The new graphics controller chip is set to be up to 50% faster than the current integrated graphics x4500 HD. Combining an integrated graphics and memory controller on the CPU is interesting, as it would eliminate the need for the northbridge chip on the motherboard. Both ‘Arrandale’ and ‘Clarkdale’ intend to make use of hyper threading technology, including smart turbo boost technology which basically tells the PC when more juice is needed and better utilises recourses in relation to what you are doing.

*Images courtesy of Intel’s website

Initially the ‘Clarkdale’ CPU’S will consist of a ‘dual core’ design intended for performance and the mainstream user. They are not intended for high end enthusiasts and gamers as they cannot utilise Crossfire or SLI (yet). We will have to wait until later this year for the proposed 4 core extreme series replacement codenamed ‘Gulftown’. Core i3 and i5 versions are also available soon; the i3 including a 4mb smart cache, HD graphics, and support for dual channel DDR3. The i5 supporting the same but with an 8mb smart cache and higher potential clock speeds. In the i3 range prices start at around £98 for the 2.93 GHz option, and £115 for the 3.06. Core i5 prices start at around £150 for the 2.66GHz and increase up to £235 for the 3.47.

The Arrandale mobile CPU’s will also consist of a dual core design and again are targeted at the mainstream user. So far they both show promising results as they are rated to outperform current dual core mobile CPU’s; while at the same time consuming no more power, thus maintaining battery life. Despite having similar power consumption to current chips, the removal of the northbridge will significantly reduce overall energy usage.  Future developments should see the reduction in size of mobile computers and extended battery life, without sacrifice to performance. The initial releases show that there will be an i3 and i5 range.

The i3 includes 2.13GHz and 2.26 GHz CPU’s running at 25w; but does not support the smart turbo boost features of the i5 and i7 series, as they have a 3mb cache. The i5 includes an ultra low 18w, 3 MB cache version of the CPU running at 1.06GHz standard and 1.86GHz using turbo boost, whereas others in the series use 35w. They range from 2.26 GHz, 2.40 GHz and 2.53 GHz, and possess a turbo boost allowing them to run faster when needed. The core i7 has a greater variety of clock speeds than the i5; and a larger cache of 4mb; it also consumes less energy at idle loads.

For workstations  - the vPro range will benefit from higher reliability, thermal performance, lower power consumption, and increased performance. Intel has also made enhancements for encryption and decryption which benefit security. The new CPU’s also have better remote monitoring, access and management. 

Below, we will take a look at some Initial benchmark tests to see what we can expect…

 Clarkdale:

*Image courtesy of Intel’s website*

*As we can see from the above chart the new mainstream Clarkdale CPU shows advantages in both processing and graphics power……….

 Arrandale:

*Once again we see a significant improvement in all areas using a 32nm mobile CPU versus the previous generation equivalent.

The verdict:

It is early stages as yet; however, it looks like a good year for Intel. Not only do the new processors out-perform the previous equivalents, but they do so with equal or less power consumption. The reduction of other chipsets needed on the motherboard should also pave the way for smaller machines, with lower prices and even lower power consumption. So your wallet is thicker, your energy consumption is greener and your PC is quicker!

It is worth mentioning that gamers and performance enthusiasts are best sticking with the 45nm core i7 series for now. As the new ‘Westmere’ CPU’s are unable to utilise Crossfire and SLI gaming. They also support dual channel DDR3 as opposed to the triple channel currently seen on high end motherboards.

Researched and written by James Weston.