AMD unveils special TWKR chip for overclockers

The 2GHz Black Edition TWKR chips could be pushed to around 7GHz

AMD has released a special limited edition processor designed for heavy overclocking. The Phenom II X4 42 Black Edition TWKR chips are based on AMD's Phenom II series and will support higher voltages and perform at higher frequencies.

The TWKR chips are designed to handle the extremes of performance tweaks and ultra-high operating speeds. Overclocking, which involves increasing a chip's clock speed beyond factory settings, is often used to boost performance for high-demand computing tasks.

However, while overclocking can improve CPU performance, it can also shorten the life of the chip and dramatically increase the risk of overheating. Many overclocked systems use extra cooling measures, some even requiring the use of ultra-cold substances such as liquid nitrogen and helium.

AMD will not be offering the TWKR processor for sale to the general public, but will distribute them to a select group of 100 overclocking experts. AMD is hoping that the chips will increase exposure for the Phenom II line and set new performance records.

Experts who have received the chip say that it ships with a speed of 2GHz, which could be pushed to around 7GHz under optimal conditions.

One of the groups which received chip was Overclockersclub.com. In its review, the site marvelled at the chip's ability to operate under the extreme conditions of cutting-edge overclocking operations.

"The fact that they can scale that much, and that they can run without any glitch at such low temperatures, demonstrates the sound engineering and the superior process that lies in each of the Phenom II processors," read the review.

"It is amazing that the engineers over at AMD were able to create processors without any cold bugs."