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64-Bit Computing From AMDFast & easy upgrade path
AMD Debuts 64-Bit Hammer CPUby Dave MurphyISSN 1535-3613
Yesterday, AMD demonstrated Hammer systems running both a 64-bit version of Linux and Microsoft Windows. AMD's chip will be easier for system manufacturers to install because it can easily run both current 32-bit applications and newly-developed 64-bit programs. It is also based on the industry standard x86 architecture, which maintains a smooth upgrade path for hardware vendors. Intel's 64-bit chip uses a new architecture that will pose manufacturing hurdles and will increase the cost to market.
Dave's Opinion32-bit, 64-bit, what's this mean to you? The bit size of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) measures the amount of data the chip can compute at one time. Generally, 64-bit processors, because they can handle more data at once, are faster than 32-bit processors. Intel's Pentium and AMD's Athlon and Duron are 32-bit chips.The first of the Hammer series of chips is codenamed Clawhammer, and will be available in desktop systems this year.
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ReferencesAMDIntel Message Center
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updated February 27, 2002
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