AMD used CeBIT in order to officially announce the worldwide introduction of the AMD Athlon 64 FX-53 processor.
The AMD Athlon 64 FX processor delivers what no other PC processor, for the time being can: 32 and 64-bit computing. AMD64 processors are the only 32- and 64-bit capable processors available today, and according to its creators, will be the first to feature built-in enhanced virus protection security technology when used in conjunction with the upcoming Windows Service Pack 2.
Specifically designed for gamers and PC enthusiasts, the AMD Athlon 64 FX processor has not been able, yet, to fully utilize its advantages due to lack of 64-bit application support. This is about to change however, since finally AMD's claim of providing Cinematic Computing is about to be put to the test.
The launch of the AMD Athlon 64 FX-53 processor comes just in advance of the much-hyped release of Far Cry. Leading video game publisher Ubisoft will release a 32-bit version of the much-anticipated action game later this month, and plans to introduce a 64-bit beta version shortly thereafter. That version will be specifically showcase AMD64 technology.
AMD64 technology will enable gamers to move to the power and excitement of 64-bit games, without sacrificing performance or their investment in 32-bit software, said Cevat Yerli, CEO and president of Crytek, Far Cry developer. CryEngine, the 'nervous system' of our games, was designed to take full advantage of the AMD64 architecture. AMD64 technology not only provides unbelievable 32-bit performance, but will also provide a true next-generation gaming experience when running the upcoming 64-bit version of our game.
The AMD Athlon 64 FX-53 processor will initially be available in limited quantities from select high-performance PC manufacturers worldwide. AMD expects to broaden that availability within the next few weeks to fulfill demand generated by hard-core gamers, digital content creators and other performance-demanding customers. Systems based on the AMD Athlon 64 FX-53 processor are expected to be available from the following:
- Europe: Alternate, Arbol, Batch PC, CDC, EID, Evesham, Formoza, Fox PC, Hattelco, Komplett, Mesh, Network Technical, nVentiv, Olidata, Paradigit, Scan, Time Computers and Unika
- US: ABS, AFT, Alienware, BOXX Technologies, CyberPower, Falcon Northwest, Monarch, Polywell, Velocity Micro, Vicious PC, Voodoo and ZT Group
- Japan: Aro-system Co. Ltd, Bless Co. Ltd, Unitcom Inc., MCJ Co. Ltd., PROSIDE Corp., Thirdwave Corp., and Visual Technology Inc.
The AMD Athlon 64 FX-53 processor is priced at USD 733 in 1,000-unit quantities.