Intel launches six-core processors

Intel has launched its first line-up of six-core processors for servers and workstations, promising greater performance.

Powered by the firm's 32nm Westmere chip architecture, the Xeon 5600 series offers hardware support for encryption as well as improved security for virtual environments.

It provides greater security through AES-NI acceleration of encryption and inclusion of Intel's Trusted Execution Technology (TXT).

Intel's Hyperthreading technology will allow the processors to support four or six cores per chip, meaning eight or 12 threads per chip. The latest Xeon series will deliver up to 60% greater performance than its predecessor.

The line-up is topped out by the six-core X5680 clocked at 3.33GHz, while the quad-core X5677 is clocked faster at 3.46GHz. Both these chips are designed for a 130W thermal envelope.

Meanwhile, the 95W versions reach 2.93GHz with the six-core X5670. The quad-core X5667 is again clocked faster at 3.066GHz. These versions have been developed for 80W and 40W and are only available as quad-core chips.

According to Kirk Skaugen, vice president and general manager of the Intel Architecture Group, the new chips will become the backbone of mainstream computing environments.

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