Intel’s code-named Nehalem processors have been projected to tangibly change Intel-based personal computer (PC) architecture thanks to new micro-architecture and built-in memory controller. But the actual transformation of Intel PC platform may be even more dramatic, as the forthcoming chips will have built-in graphics core and PCI Express support.
The first version of the Nehalem processor family will be the code-named Bloomfield chip aimed at extreme desktops/workstations, high-end desktops and servers as well as on some other quite expensive systems. The central processing unit (CPU) will have built-in triple-channel memory controller, will use Quick Path Interconnect (QPI) bus to connect to other chips within the system and will utilize LGA1366 form-factor. In general, Bloomfield-based PC platforms will resemble traditional AMD64 system architecture with CPU, North Bridge and I/O controller.
But microprocessors from the Nehalem family aimed at mainstream market – code-named Lynnfield and Havendale – will have substantial differences compared to Bloomfield, which will catalyze dramatic changes to PC architecture going forward, reports PC Watch web-site.
Intel’s Lynnfield processor is a Nehalem micro-architecture-based monolith quad-core microprocessor in LGA1160 form-factor with dual-channel DDR3 memory controller as well as PCI Express 2.0 x16 interface to connect add-on graphics cards.
Intel’s Havendale processor is multi-chip module (MCM) in LGA1160 form-factor containing Nehalem micro-architecture-based dual-core CPU as well as graphics and memory controller hub (GMCH) that features dual-channel DDR3 memory controller, PCI Express 2.0 x16 interface to connect add-on graphics cards as well as integrated graphics core. It is projected that both chips on the MCM are made using 45nm process technology.
