AMD will introduce a new modeling system for its processors. Under the new naming scheme, the performance rating goes away in favor of an alphanumeric model. AMD will also refer to the new Athlon 64 X2 models simply as AMD Athlon. AMD will drop the “64” suffix claiming it is no longer necessary to claim 64-bit support and allows for a shorter name.
The new naming scheme debuts early next week with the Athlon X2 BE-2350 and BE-2300 models. The new alphanumeric modeling system allows AMD to designate different models by thermal design power, processor series and speed.
The first two alphabetical characters of the model number indicate the processor class and TDP rating. AMD designates the Athlon X2 BE-series processors as sub-65-watt TDP models. The new Athlon X2 BE-2350 and BE-2300 feature 45-watt TDP ratings. AMD intends to release different processor classes as it becomes necessary.
The first numeral in the model number indicates the processor series and processor attributes, while the remaining three numerals indicate speed within the series and class. AMDs new modeling system names processors on a higher-is-better system.
The new naming scheme designates the first letter as the processor class. AMD currently has three processor classes for the new scheme – G, B and L. All G-class processors are designated as premium processors under the Phenom X4 and X2 names. The B-class processors slot below the G-class processors as an intermediate model. At the bottom of the AMD ladder is the L-class processors. L-class processors carry the AMD Athlon or Sempron names.
The second letter in the model designates thermal design power class. AMD P-class processors have TDPs greater than 65-watts; S-class processors have TDPs of approximately 65-watt while E-class processors have less than 65-watt TDPs.
Under the new naming scheme, upcoming Stars-family dual and quad-core processors will carry the AMD Phenom X2 GS-6xxx and Phenom X4 GP-7xxx names. Value-priced AMD Athlon and Sempron processors will carry the Athlon X2 LS-2xxx and Sempron LE-1xxx names.
AMD Phenom FX processors will not follow the new class designations; however, AMD is undecided on the model numbers.
AMD has prepared to launch the new Athlon X2 BE-2350 and BE-2300 early next week. Pricing for the new models is set at $91 and $86 for the Athlon X2 BE-2350 and BE-2300, per-processor in 1,000-unit quantities, respectively.
