Previously we analyzed the Nehalem architecture (using the Intel Core i7 965 Extreme + chips x58) which represents the most advanced solution at present in terms of performance as well as incorporate countless improvements over the Core 2 Duo / Quad supports the Triple-Channel technology which resulted in a change of socket (LGA1366). This global launch is performed on September 8, 2009 (Argentina), Baytech Networks could not miss the opportunity to analyze and test the new proposals that Intel has prepared for the approaching society Nehalem architecture almost the same but for an audience Mainstream not want to spend too much but if you keep in your hands the potential of that technology.

Intel introduces its new Core i7 processors Lynnfield models 870, i7 860 e i5 750 with the P55 Express chipset (for support) designed to meet, or rather to satisfy the demand of users in the most demanding applications of Digital Multimedia, Gaming and multi-tasking (running several processes at once without a noticeable loss of performance).

One characteristic of Lynnfield processors (code name), which emphasizes the company Intel, is that basically contains the Nehalem architecture benefits such as energy efficiency, greater processing power than previous generations and the manufacturing process which means that we are facing really powerful solutions available to the majority.

As I mentioned at the beginning to the end of 2008 we had the x58 platform series processors Core i7 900 for enthusiasts with a thirst for peak performance. Now, in the present with the variety of Lynnfield processors based on Nehalem (Bloomfield) we can choose and assemble the best possible combination to the cost that a user is willing to face.

It is attractive to have a system that is smart about how you manage system resources and if necessary concentrate all power to a particular application so we get a timeout reduced competitive results through technologies such as Turbo Boost, Hyper-Threading (HT) or Smart Cache is a reality.

These benefits significantly improve the experience in specific settings such as iTunes, the 3DMark Vantage Cinebench or because the use of multiple cores at once is essential. Sometimes it is recommended to use the HT in games, such as Grid where ever we accede to the race course.

Both processors as the platform P55 Lynnfield offer enticing features to form a perfect cocktail to properly handle the applications of today and if we drop the price of DDR3 memory will certainly not go unnoticed.

The Core i7 800 series contains excellent virtues (some mentioned above) to improve the tasks performed by the user incorporating the memory controller inside the CPU supporting dual-channel DDR3 memory which explains the reduction of pins on Nehalem architecture (Core i7 900 series). It also supports discrete graphics in either "single" (1x16 PCIe) and dual (PCIe 2x8) for those looking to squeeze the video performance.

The P55 chipset is no slouch providing significant benefits such as support for Matrix RAID technology (up to six ports SATA 3Gb / s internal) and integrated LAN and audio, among other things.

In order to increase performance without having to opt for complex configurations of overclocking, Intel Turbo Boost technology includes schema which shows clearly how that process. Finally, activating one of the core increases its operating speed until reaching a limit, if the demand is high the second core into action and so depending, so essential to a balanced energy management (you need to have activated some options in the Bios). Simple and practical, are the two words that define this concept.

In this comparison table we have the main processors that we will soon present their respective operating speeds, number of cores, cache and TDP. Note that the differences lie mainly in the rates being the most accessible Core i5 750 with a starting price of $ 199 (in the USA of course). The subsequent series presents higher costs, especially the Core i7 870 to $ 555 USD in massive cost that exceeds the i7 860; likely will have to see their margin of OC.

What is the idea of this release? Intel intends to fill a void left Bloomfield processors since the latter are designated enthusiast sector by providing better performance in memory DDR3 (Triple-Channel), in Gaming (PCIe 2x16) and plentiful and overclocking possibilities. On the other hand, the series aims to Lynnfield Mainstream bringing great value sector and flexibility at lower cost with really competitive attributes.

There are models of processors for all tastes to the Core series i5-700 appears to be more attractive to users in Latin America because they have a more affordable price. However, it’s all depending on the purpose that we will give to PC options.

However, probably the owner of a Core 2 Quad (Q9400 for example) is tempted in an update but is bound to ask whether it is worth the radical change of platform. This undoubtedly is a case of Intel debate and therefore leaves some unclear points in expressing strong aspects that involve the migration to an i5-750. In applications where the demand for CPU is remarkable (see SYSmark, Cinebench, 3DMark Vantage, etc.) are seen some improvements that leave Core i5 good standing.

Turbo Boost technology facilitates substantial assistance (core frequency increases automatically) as in the case of encoding audio or 3DMark, also increases the performance in video encoding with the new instruction set SSE4.1 and SSE4.2. That is, choose a core i5 has fruit but it all depends if the performance increase for a particular user is perceptible.

Here are set out lots of applications that are optimized to function properly on processors with 4 cores or more of Threads (HT) standing out games like Far Cry 2, HAWK or office environments (Excel 2007), including the creation of content (professional or not) of videos.

In situations where it is essential the use of multiple cores (multi-tasking), have higher frequency of operation is not an optimal idea unless HT also implemented to achieve significant results as shown in the graphs of the slide. Then we will see in the test section if the impact it is perceived as Intel says.

Apparently the series Core i7-800 reached a more enjoyable gaming experience with differences, sometimes considerably. Note Lynnfield efficiency over the Q9560, which provides increased cache and GHz Clearly we are facing an architecture that will talk for a long time, it only remains to know what AMD's plans in this regard.

We could not miss the mention of the upcoming Windows 7 to reach the public very soon. This highlights the great value with Core i7 processors and i5 they have with the Microsoft operating system improve its performance (doubling or tripling in some situations) and multi-tasking. Both Microsoft and Intel have been working together to provide complete harmony either in the application of HT, SSE4 instructions, such as power management. We also expect Microsoft to work with AMD to have fair competition.

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