AMD 1090T Six Core Review

Introduction

A few years ago AMD introduced its AM2 socket which was used as the basis for many of their processors. This provided a very stable and cost effective upgrade path for users as it enabled them to purchase a motherboard, and then drop each new CPU directly into their system.

As DDR3 started to appear on the market AMD upgraded to the AM3 socket which could still handle all the AM2 and AM2+ chips, but now could also accept the AM3 chips which had DDR3 controllers on board. The AMD Phenom II processors have been churned out regularly ever since, in multiple guises. We've had cut down dual core models for the budget conscious, slightly cut down quads for those seeking maximum bang-for-buck, and the full fat AMD Phenom II Black Edition 965 for those who want to obtain the ultimate performance from their AMD system.

It's been a while since AMD have introduced a wholly new processor rather than a variant on the hugely successful Phenom II models, but today is such a day.

AMD Phenom II X6

The Phenom II X6 is the newest processor from AMD and replaces the 965BE as their flagship model. Thankfully, unlike Intel, they aren't introducing yet another new socket for you to fork out for, once again showing AMDs commitment to the end-user who already has a motherboard they're happy with. However to get the most out of your new six processor cores you should upgrade to the new 890 chipset which supports SATA 6Gb/s and discreet USB 3.0. Of course a new motherboard is always a sensible option when transitioning to a premium processor, but it's wonderful to see AMD not demanding you do so.

In this initial release we have two models, the AMD Phenom II X6 1055T which has 2.8GHz as standard and the AMD Phenom II X6 1090T which begins at 3.2GHz. AMD have also introduced Turbo CORE technology which will increase the speed of three of the six cores when under heavy loading and in this form the 1055T will clock to 3.3GHz and the 1090T increases to 3.6GHz.

3.6GHz of Six Core Processing. There aren't going to be many users complaining about a lack of power here.

Today we have the all-singing, all-dancing AMD Phenom II X6 1090T on the bench, so let's take a closer look at the new technologies we have under our fingertips.