Advanced Micro Devices cut prices on a number of its dual-core server processors, while Intel offered instant rebates on select dual-core desktop CPUs.
AMD last week knocked down prices by more than 40 percent on a range of its dual-core server processor models. For example, AMD cut the dual-core 870HE model by $1,135 to $1,514. The 2GHz 870HE is for four- to eight-socket servers and offers a lower power envelope, compared with a typical 95 watts for similar dual-core Opteron parts.
Several other 800 series processors also were reduced, including the 95-watt 1.8GHz 865, to $698 from $1,165.
In addition, AMD cut prices on its dual-core processors for servers using one or two sockets. Among the cuts were the 2.4GHz 280, which was reduced to $851 from $1,299, and the 275, lowered to $690 from $1,051.
The price changes (see chart below) were confirmed by an AMD spokeswoman and are available on the Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company’s Web site. All prices are for low quantities.
Earlier this month, Intel launched a promotional discount on three dual-core desktop models for the channel.
The Santa Clara, Calif., chip giant is offering an instant rebate of $80 on the 840, a 3.2GHz Pentium D priced at $530 in low quantities. Other discounts include a $60 instant rebate on the 830, a 3GHz Pentium D, and $40 on the 2.8GHz Pentium D. The promotion lasts through April 22.
Intel has said publicly that it aims to transition the market to dual-core processors quickly by offering aggressive pricing on its newest processors. The company is scheduled to ship its second-generation dual-core server processors with hardware-assisted virtualization for the new Bensley platform in March, with servers showing up in the first half of the year. AMD is expected to ship its dual-core processors with virtualization technology in the first half as well.
| AMD Model Number | Price as of Jan. 23 | Price as of Feb. 13 | Price Drop |
| 152 | $799 | $637 | $162 |
| 180 | $799 | $637 | $162 |
| 265 | $690 | $316 | $374 |
| 270 | $851 | $455 | $396 |
| 275 | $1,051 | $690 | $361 |
| 280 | $1,299 | $851 | $448 |
| 260HE | $851 | $455 | $396 |
| 265HE | $1,051 | $690 | $361 |
| 270HE | $1,299 | $851 | $448 |
| 865 | $1,165 | $698 | $467 |
| 870 | $1,514 | $873 | $641 |
| 870HE | $2,649 | $1,514 | $1,135 |
| 865HE | $2,149 | $1,165 | $984 |
| 860HE | $1,514 | $873 | $641 |
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