With AMD finally about to release "Barcelona" server chips, Intel has also made a move on the quad-core server front. It has launched its own first multi-processor (MP) chips based on its now standard Core micro-architecture.

Six new chips make up the Quad-Core Xeon 7300 series, and they are designed for applications "requiring uncompromised performance", states Intel, such as business intelligence and critical database systems.

The Xeon 7300 series operates at frequencies of up to 2.93GHz, at 130 watts. There are 80-watt and 50-watt versions optimised for four-socket blades and high-density server racks form factors, clocking 1.86GHz. Intel also claims the chips deliver more than three times the performance-per-watt over its previous dual-core products.

Hitachi, HP, Fujitsu-Siemens, IBM and NEC are among the system manufacturers releasing server hardwatre built around the new Xeons.

"With the Xeon 7300 series, Intel is delivering new levels of performance and performance per watt, and driving the Intel Core microarchitecture into such innovative systems as four-socket, 16-core blades that use less energy than our older models," said the co-general manager of Intel’s Digital Enterprise Group, Tom Kilroy.

Note that Intel has previously released quad-core Xeons, in November 2006, but these "Clovertown"-based chips involved a 'dual die' architecture, where two separate dual-cores were packaged together. While Intel has now taken its latest Core micro-architecture into quad-core territory, AMD will be alone with Barcelona's 'native' design, where four cores share the same silicon substrate.

Pricing for the quad-core processors ranges from $856 to $2,301 (based on 1,000-unit direct orders) and details on the performance characteristics of the Quad-Core Intel Xeon Processor 7300 series can be found on the Intel website. Details can also be found on Intel’s own S7000FC4UR server implementation.

See also: Electronics Weekly's focus on microprocessors, a roundup of content related to microprocessor technologies and developments.