AMD unveils low-power desktop chips

AMD has upped the performance-per-watt stakes with three new processors

AMD has unveiled three desktop processors that promise performance-per-watt improvements. 

The chipmaker released two 45W chips with its single-core Athlon 3500+ and 3800+ as well as the high performance dual-core 6000+ processor.

All three chips are manufactured using 65nm production technology. AMD delivered its first 65nm chip last December, about one year after Intel switched to 65nm.

The transition to smaller chips plays a key part in the power savings. Although the energy costs do not play a big part in desktop systems, cooler chips allow system builders to design smaller and fan-less systems more suitable for the living room.