What are my CPU upgrade options?

[e_dawg]

I am using a Dell Dimension E521 as described in my sig. It has an A64x2 5000+ that I would like to replace with something faster (direct drop-in). I don't see anything except for 6000+ or 6400+ units that pump out heat at a 125 W clip. Not sure I want to get something that sucks even more power and generates even more heat. Do they not make a 65 W version of the 6400+ on a smaller process? I haven't seen any advancement on this front from AMD in a while. Did I miss something?

 

[ddrueding]

I just pulled a 6000+ from my home system, and it didn't seem to run that hot (no official tests were run). I have it sitting around if you are interested.

 

[udaman]

I am using a Dell Dimension E521 as described in my sig. It has an A64x2 5000+ that I would like to replace with something faster (direct drop-in). I don't see anything except for 6000+ or 6400+ units that pump out heat at a 125 W clip. Not sure I want to get something that sucks even more power and generates even more heat. Do they not make a 65 W version of the 6400+ on a smaller process? I haven't seen any advancement on this front from AMD in a while. Did I miss something?

No, you did not miss anything, other than AMD missing something...as in delayed releases of product lines . If you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint more, do like Apple did, go for the brand with the greatest watt/performance stats...Intel, just now moving to 45nm process, while AMD hasn't even put out their 65nm process CPU's.


What you are 'missing' is the Phenom line from AMD, pegged for this quarter, but who knows. I'm guessing your Dell has an AM2 not AM2+ socket? If so, then read this link. P series rumored TDP ~89w, as opposed to the S series 65w. E series not so great @45w, as Intel will soon release a Quad Core Extreme of higher clock speed, for power laptops at about same TDP:

http://www.techarp.com/showarticle.aspx?artno=425&pgno=1

Phenom X2 GP-6800 2.8 GHz 2.1 GHz​

older links:

http://www.ditii.com/2007/07/28/amd-roadmap-revealed-phenom-model-numbers/

http://www.mikeshardware.co.uk/RoadmapQ108.htm#Penryn