AMD has announced three new models in the dual-core AMD Opteron processor family that lead the industry in x86 performance and performance-per-watt capabilities. The new Dual-Core AMD Opteron processors are said to help minimize overall server power consumption and cooling requirements.

The dual-core AMD Opteron processor model 885 for up to eight-way/16-core enterprise-class servers and model 285 for two-way/four-core workstations and servers are immediately available. The model 185 for one-way/two-core servers and workstations is expected to be available within 30 days. All three models deliver what it claims is the highest performance available for x86 servers and power consumption remains within AMD's standard thermal envelope.

In addition to offering native dual-core technology, the processor helps deliver a savings for enterprise datacenters. Dual-Core AMD Opteron processors offer performance gains while operating in the same power and thermal infrastructure as single-core AMD Opteron processors. This means fewer servers can do the job of many. AMD PowerNow! technology with optimized power management can increase those savings even further because it enables servers and workstations to power down processors, based on usage. AMD PowerNow! technology can be said to reduce CPU power consumption by up to 75% during idle time, to help decrease the strain on datacenter cooling and ventilation systems and helping minimize overall power consumption for enterprise IT and workstation customers.

The dual-core AMD Opteron processor model 885 is priced at US$2,149 in 1,000-unit quantities and the model 285 is priced at US$1,051 in 1,000-unit quantities. The dual-core AMD Opteron processor model 185 is scheduled to be available within 30 days.