AMD Introduces Energy-Efficient Chips

The Athlon 64 3500+ and 3800+ are based on 65nm process technology and run on 45 watts of power. Previous versions ramped up to as much as 89 watts. The single-core chips are made for small form-factor system designs.

"We expect that our commercial and consumer customers, as well as end-users, will be pleased with both the low noise and small form-factor designs possible using this latest generation of energy-efficient desktop processors," Bob Brewer, corporate VP of AMD's desktop division, said in a statement.

AMD also launched the Athlon 64 X2 6000+, a dual-core processor made to power high-quality graphics, video, and security on Windows Vista.

The new chips are available now. Computer makers using the new processors include Dell Computer's subsidiary Alienware, Fujitsu Siemens Computers, Systemax, and Voodoo PC. The Athlon 64 3500+ and 3800+ cost $88 and $93, respectively. The Athlon 64 X2 costs $464.