AMD?s quad core CPUs on the way

ZDNet reports that AMD is preparing to unveil a quad core processor named Phenom later this year. Two models are set to be unveiled – the Phenom FX and Phenom X4. There will also be a dual-core version called the Phenom X2.

With Intel currently leading the quad core market, this move cannot come soon enough for AMD. The recent release of Microsoft’s Windows Vista has significantly increased the need for multi-core PC processors.

And whilst Intel’s multi-core chips basically contain several processors working in unison, AMD is taking the approach of developing a single chip with four individual cores.

Leslie Sobon, director of AMD’s desktop division, says that the Phenom brand is set to become the firm’s leading brand for high-performance CPUs in the future. However, for the time being AMD’s Athlon brand will remain its leading light, with the Sempron line also set to continue.

Intel is itself scheduled to release a new range of quad core processors later this year.