Intel launches first quad-core processor

Brings big improvements in multi-tasking and video encoding

Intel has launched its first quad-core processor, the Core 2 Extreme QX6700, and tests have shown huge performance increases over the previous generation CPU.

The company is bringing out two quad core CPUs over the coming months, beginning with the release of the QX6700, which is aimed at high-end enthusiasts and gamers. Early next year, a mainstream quad core processor, the Core 2 Quad, will come out.

In PCW’s tests of the new QX6700 processor we found massive increases of up to 55 per cent over the previous dual core Extreme processor, the X6800, in video rendering programs. It also outperformed other AMD and Intel processors in 3DMark06 and PcMark05 CPU tests, producing the fastest results we have seen. Our benchmarking section of the Test Bed has more in-depth figures.

Sysmark04 SE, which tests real world applications like Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer and Adobe applications, doesn't get a boost over dual core. Games can't take advantage of the extra cores either. The bottom line is video and audio editing and encoding will get a big boost but office programs will continue to have similar performance to Core 2 Duo processors.

The processors are a multi-die package, so uses two dual core CPUs giving it its four cores. They have a total cache of 8MB, split across the two CPUs, and have a shared Front Side Bus.

Intel has been criticised for developing the quad core CPU as a two processor package, but defended this decision, saying it allows the company to release them quicker, and that ultimately most people care more about the performance than the design.

The company said at least 13 PC manufacturers would have quad core computers available at launch. We've reviewed a Hi-Grade Ultis Tachyon QX6700, but found that while its performance was good, it is noisy and let down by its case.

Accompanying the processor is Intel's new motherboard the D976XBX2, or Bad Axe 2. It has been optimized for Core 2 Quad but in our review, which we'll post later today, we found that the small enhancements over the D976XBX don't justify its price.

The Core 2 Extreme QX6700 will be available from 14 November 2006, with a retail price of around £700, the same as the Core 2 Duo Extreme X6800. Systems integrators buying in bulk can buy the processor for $999 (£534 ex. VAT) per 1,000 units. It will continue to sell side-by-side the Core 2 Duo range of processors for some time to come.