Thursday, November 21

Back in 2010 Intel first released its new Nehalem Microarchitecture processors, also known as Core i3, i5 and i7. The raw power that each core had was like nothing ever seen before. The i3, i5 and i7 processors were created to reach out to all computer users. The i3 covered the average internet user; the power allowed a lag free experience when browsing the internet. Intel’s i5 gave users not only what the i3 had to offer, but allowed people to play PC games as well. Then we have the i7, Intel’s strongest chip. The i7 is the performance model and gives users unbelievable power in their system. Each Nehalem Microarchitecture processor came with the ability to run 3D games, using the integrated graphics. Laptops and desktops could now eliminate the need for a GPU for light gaming.

Lately, you may have heard some news about the new Ivy Bridge processors, also known as the Third Generation Core i3, i5 and i7 Processors, by Intel. In this article I will be discussing the new features of the Ivy processors, as well as how Intel came this far in only three generations of processors.

The Ivy processors use the standard LGA 1155 socket, that allows most users to upgrade their old i3, i5 or i7 processor without buying a new motherboard. Amazingly, the 3rd Generation processors run at 3.0 GHz or above; that’s a 5% to 15% increase over the old Sandy Bridge, and that is just at a normal clock rate! This massive increase in speed gives multitasking a whole new meaning. No need to worry if you can run a security scan, play a game and have the internet running all at the same time. Not only has the CPU received an upgraded clock speed but so has the GPU. On all of the Ivy Bridge processors the normal GPU clock rate runs around 650 MHz; a 20% to 50% increase over the Sandy Bridge. According to Cnet.com, Intel hit the nail on the head with these new integrated graphics. This plays a big part mostly in laptops because a casual user doesn’t have to spend extra money for a gamer’s graphics card.

When looking at which processor might suit you best there are two types of models: Performance and Mainstream. If you are on a desktop the i7 is the only Ivy processor that is offered on the performance branch. Depending on how you look at it this may be a pro or con. The i7 has always been known for its outstanding power. On the mobile processors the performance branch is still only offered with the i7, but Intel does have plans for the i7 to extend into the mainstream branch.

Ivy processors have many new features and performance tweaks which make them the best yet. In my option, these are some of the top new features found in all three Cores:

  • Tri-Gate Transistor Technology – Enable the processor to switch into “3D” gaming while using 50% less power consumption then the Sandy Bridge.
  • PCI Express 3.0 Support.
  • Massive decrease in Power Usage and Battery Life – Core i7-3770T (Desktop) only uses 45W.
  • Improved Graphics – Play games such as Diablo 3 at Medium-Low settings.
  • Compatible with Sandy Bridge – Supports H61, H67, P67 and Z68 chipsets.
  • Overclock works better than before – Core i7-3770K (Desktop) can be overclocked from 3.5 GHz to 4.6GHz.
  • Use it in a laptop – Intel has not forgotten about how many users/gamers have switched from the Desktop to a laptop.

Back in April 2010 Intel would have never thought how big these Nehalem Microarchitecture processors would be. In my option these processors have been the best the world has ever seen. Computers are now reaching close to 5 GHz using the new Intel chips. Computer games have never looked any better. Intel has added never before seen items into the new i3s, i5s and i7s such as Hyper-Threading, integrated graphics, L3 cache, PCI and PCI-E integration, and so much more. And that is only what is here now. There is much more to come in the future.

© 2012 techsupportforum.com

 

1 Comment

  1. Yashtir Gopee on

    Will Intel provide the Ivy Bridge Core i3 at Q3 or Q4 of 2012?Or has the production of intel dual core cpus stoped? 

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