Intel plans to launch its next-generation dual-core desktop processor, codenamed Presler, in the first quarter of 2006, which is about the same time the chip giant will unveil its dual-core notebook CPU, Yonah, according to sources at Taiwan motherboard makers.

The Presler CPU will be built using a 65nm process, compared to the 90nm process being used in the manufacture of the dual-core Smithfield processor, the sources said, adding that the new process is expected to help reduce the power consumption of the CPU.

Unconfirmed market reports said that the level of power consumption of the Smithfield processors, to be launched in the third quarter of this year, is about 10% higher than Intel?s 90nm Pentium 4 CPUs, the sources noted.

The Presler is likely to start with a clock speed of 3.60GHz, the sources said.

Taiwan motherboard makers also cannot confirm market reports that Intel?s 915-series core logic chipsets will be compatible with its dual-core processors.