Intel Corporation introduced today two low-voltage 45nm processors for servers and workstations that run at 50 watts, or 12.5 watts per core and frequencies of 2.5GHz. The Quad-Core Intel Xeon Processor L5400 Series takes advantage of Intel's 45nm manufacturing capabilities and reinvented transistor formula.

According to the press release, Quad-Core Intel Xeon L5400 processors are as much as 25 percent faster and have a 50 percent larger cache size than Intel's previous-generation, low-voltage Quad-Core Intel Xeon processors, while at the same time maintaining the low 50-watt thermal envelope. The quad-core L5420 and L5410 processors run at 2.50 GHz and 2.33 GHz, respectively, and feature 12MB of on-die cache and dedicated 1333 MHz front side buses.

Next quarter, Intel will also begin shipping a new dual-core low-voltage processor that will boast a 40-watt rating and clock speed of 3 GHz, with a 6 MB cache size and a 1333 MHz FSB. Intel is also extending the existing Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor 5400 series for embedded market segments by offering the Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor L5410 with support for a 7-year life cycle.

Pricing and availability (in 1,000-unit quantities):

• Intel Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor L5420 2.50GHz 1333MHz 50W - $380
• Intel Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor L5410 2.33GHz 1333MHz 50W - $320

Intel Introduces New Server Processors