AMD has given its 64-bit Opteron processors a speed boost: The new Opteron models 150, 250, and 850 run at 2.4GHz, up from the 2.2GHz of the previous flagship models 148, 248, and 848. They're built on the same 0.13-micron process architecture and feature the same 1MB Level 2 cache and integrated dual-channel, 128-bit registered DDR memory controller as existing Opterons. AMD boasts that the Opteron CPUs' Direct Connect Architecture improves scalability and eliminates front-side-bus bottlenecks by linking processors directly to memory, to I/O, and to each other in multiprocessor systems, offering advantages on top of the AMD64 extensions of the x86 instruction set to combine 32-bit performance with 64-bit capability.

The company adds that it's already begun initial production of AMD64 chips with 90-nanometer process manufacturing, looking to begin shipping in the third quarter of 2004. The Opteron 250, designed for dual-processor servers and workstations, is now shipping for $851 in 1,000-unit OEM quantities. The entry-level, uniprocessor-oriented Opteron 150 ($637) and four- and eight-way, enterprise-class-server-duty Opteron 850 ($1,514) are scheduled to ship within 30 days.