Intel launches Core i7 processor Extreme Edition X 990

Intel has launched a new range of topping the 6-core processor, twelve threads today in the form of Core i7 Extreme Edition 990 X. Silicon 32nm Westmere-based, the 990 X expels the existing i7 980 X Extreme Edition from its $999 price-point (in bulk quantities of 1,000 units) while also offering an unlocked multiplier and bringing slightly higher clock speed: 3.4 GHz and a maximum of 73 GHz when Turbo Boost kicks, up to 3.33 GHz and 3.6 GHz for 980 X.

Like his brothers hexacore 990 X has 12 MB of L3 cache, 130W TDP and a sport requires a motherboard socket LGA1366. This should be Intel's Last chip in its codenamed Gulftown range, which will be replaced by the platform "and" Sandy Bridge (codename Patsburg) and when released in late 2011, will use the new socket LGA2011.

PC enthusiasts not affected the bragging rights that come with higher Intel processor line might be happy to know that the non-Extreme Core i7 970 Edition has received a welcome low price to a more palatable $ 583, down from its previous $ 880, making it cheaper 6-core Intel processor. And, last but not least, the quad core i7 960, that is synchronized to 3.2 GHz, fell from $ 562 $ 294.