AMD processors, models available and history. Concept of APU and AMD Processor Architecture. Models and Cooling Systems
Processors are fundamental items for any and all computerized machines, as they are the "brain of the machine" the most intelligent chip capable of "making decisions" and executing tasks according to a pre-established schedule.
Without processors, there would be no modern electronic machines, computers, robots, or all the wonders that gadgets provide us. These electronic chips are true marvels of engineering, a true state of the art!
Here we will talk a little more about AMD and its first processors. In the previous class, we talked about the same path taken by Intel. I will only cover desktop processors and the most famous ones in Brazil, the others were omitted.
History of Processors in the World
Even old computing machines (ENIAC, UNIVAC, etc.) already had a processor. Because the processor is the general management center, which calculates, activates devices, interprets the program, activates electrical signals, in short, does everything in themachine. However, the processors in those machines had thousands of wires, cables, valves and could literally take up an entire room! All of that was just the central processing unit (CPU), missing the rest of the machine to function! For that very reason, those computers were huge buildings, and could not be called personal computers (PC).
Only in 1948, did brilliant geniuses (John Bardeen, William Shockley and Walter Brattain) at Bell Labs (AT&T) would discover a revolutionary electronic component that would completely change the world! Thanks to studies of solid state electronics, the transistor was discovered!
Later this discovery could replace valves completely, producing smaller, more reliable electronic circuits, with a longer lifespan and less energy consumption.
We are now in the era of solid state electronics, where all valves were being replaced by transistorized circuits.
The industry continued its research in the solid state field, and we were yet to see another revolution in the electronic world! Integrated circuits!
It would be a big step towards manufacturing future processors!
Known as IC- Integrated Circuit or CI in Portuguese, this component was discovered in 1949 and would achieve the impossible. Bringing together in a single component more than 1 transistor and a series of others, in a very small space!
Even the first processors already had hundreds of transistors integrated into a single chip. The most modern ones would have a city, or even an entire country, integrated. The miracle of nanotechnology.
The processor core (CORE)
The concept of core applies exactly to the internal chip, which actually houses the technology and all the structure necessary for a CPU. Measuring centimeters or millimeters, this chip is the result of nanotechnology (Lithography).
The core contains the ALU, Registers, and other integrated circuits for the perfect functioning of the CPU chip. The CPU itself is covered with a rigid protective encapsulation, to prevent the internal chip (fragile) from breaking; generally on the outside there is a metal contact reserved to be connected to the heat sink+cooler for cooling purposes.
The first CPU models did not need a cooler, until the 486. Nowadays, all CPU chips need to be cooled, or there is a risk of burning/damage. Processors need to work cold, the cooler, the better!
When there was a technological impediment to continue increasing the clock (Ghz) of processors, the concept of Cores emerged.
The famous Multi-Cores they use internal chips that have more than one integrated CPU, running at lower speeds, but in parallel. As if there were two heads thinking!
From then on, it would no longer be interesting to increase the Ghz of the processors, but rather to integrate more Cores.
The moderns AMD processor models (Like Ryzen Series) currently already have the Northbridge chipset built in. Therefore, the RAM/DDR memory controller and video are already in the processor. Remember that AMD had this architecture long before Intel adopted it in its line (Core iX), although the processor became more expensive, the Mobo reduced in price.
Cache Memory
In these processors, the famous memories Cache were evident, embedded within the processor Core (16Kb, or 32Kb) known as L1.
The cache is an ultra-fast memory that operates with a clock frequency in the same range as the processor. This guarantees extreme speed. Its function is to store the latest instructions or results, generating faster access to a lot of information that has already been processed. In the past, the processor had to search for this information in RAM, but it operates at a much lower frequency than the cache. The processor becomes slower until it searches for this information, because without the cache it remains idle for nanoseconds, a time that in the modern world can be an eternity!
Producing cache memory in the processor core is very expensive, for this reason, the memories cache are very small (16KB the first ones) but sufficient for their function and incredible improvement in performance.
Later there would be the concept of L2, L3 cache, however these memories, although also embedded in the CPU Core, operate with a very reduced clock, and do not offer the same performance as the L1 cache.
Getting Started with a CPU Chip 8 bit.
AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) is an American multinational corporation founded in 1969, manufacturer of microchips and other integrated circuits. One of its founders worked on the creation of the first integrated circuit at Fairchild.
Since its first steps in the world of computing, the company has been a direct competitor to its biggest rival INTEL, producing many similar processors.
Even with many competitors, it is one of the few that remains active in the computer processor manufacturing market.
👉AM9080
Launched in 1974, this was literally AMD's first processor for computers. Based on the 8080 architecture. As it was very popular at the time, this 8-Bit processor was a direct competitor to the Z80 (Zilog) and especially to Intel's 8080, since its cost was very competitive.
It was produced based on the unofficial 8080 design that was later made official in a commercial agreement with Intel.
AM9080 could run at a 2Mhz clock
👉AM2900 - (2901)
Launched in 1975, the 2900 series was AMD's first line of 4-bit components. Although it was not a processor, it was intended to be used in computers as an electronic component. This chip was the ALU (arithmetic logic unit) that would still need other chips to effectively build a real CPU.
16-Bit Processorss
A 16-bit processor, originally created by Intel (8086) but which was licensed to many manufacturers to produce compatible processors. AMD produced the AM86, which was a licensed compatible with Intel's 8086, running from 5 MHz to 10 MHz.
Examples of machines that used this processor were the IBM/XT, IBM/AT and NASA on the Discovery space shuttle.
👉AM186
Launched in 1982, this other 16-Bit processor was also produced under license by AMD, based on the Intel 80186 architecture. Capable of running up to 25Mhz clock, it was produced until 2007. As we saw before, the 80186 was an improvement on the original 8086, and in the case of AMD it was no different.
👉AM286
In 1984, there were not many companies specialized in manufacturing microprocessors, since the process is very expensive, and many of them dedicated themselves to other businesses.
AMD is still going strong, now producing a variant of Intel's famous 80286. The Am286 was manufactured by AMD under license from INTEL. The curious thing is that IBM itself (manufacturer of the XT and AT) asked Intel to find another manufacturing partner, and in this case AMD was called by Intel itself, so that the supply contract with IBM would not be cut.
Even with Intel migrating to the 386 line, AMD continued to manufacture Am286 until 1987, with good improvements, one of which is the clock that reached 20Mhz.
Third Generation AMD Processors - 32 Bits!
Am386
Launched in 1991, this Am386 processor was fully compatible with Intel's 80386. At this stage, AMD established itself as the second largest microprocessor manufacturer (due to help from IBM). The Am386 was a 32-bit processor (it could already run Windows 3.1/3.11 or Linux systems). Although Intel didn't like it, since the contract was only for the 80286 and earlier lines, AMD was able to sell the Am386 legally, and on top of that it improved the clock for models from 20 to 40Mhz.
There were several versions just like Intel's, changing clock and some features.
There was still no cache memory, no MMX instruction set, and no need for a heat sink/cooler for cooling.
👉Am486
Launched in mid-1993, this AMD processor began to mark the commercial battle between Intel and AMD. Sold at a lower price than the Intel 80486, the Am486 still had a higher clock of 40Mhz, which aroused interest in manufacturers such as Acer and Compaq. There was also an improved version of the Am486 that was equipped with advanced functions to improve electrical energy, in addition to 8Kb or 16Kb L1 cache memory. The Am486 DX4 model would gain versions that could reach up to 120Mhz, and even voltages of 3.3V! With speeds above 100Mhz, there was already a need to use heat sinks + coolers to refrigeration
👉Am586
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Launched in 1995, this AMD processor was an upgrade to the old Intel 486. It was fully pinout compatible, reaching an incredible 133Mhz clock speed! With this speed, the use of a heatsink + cooler was already necessary.
Compatible with Socket (1,2,3) boards, it already operates with DRAM memories with FSB up to 33 Mhz.
It already had 16Kb cache memory, making it a very competitive alternative even for the first lines of Intel's Pentium.
👉AMD K5
Launched in 1996, this was the first processor designed and developed 100% by AMD. Its goal was to be an excellent alternative to Intel's Pentium. With versions of 75Mhz to 133 Mhz clock, it operated memories with FSB of 50Mhz to 66Mhz. It had 8+16Kb L1 cache memory and could be used in Mobo with Socket 5 or 7.
Almost 4.5 million transistors were integrated into the K5, which already had an MMX instruction set.
Like Intel, AMD abolished the use of the name (X86) for its processors, and began using nicknames, which could be registered as patents.
👉AMD K6
Launched in 1997, this processor was intended for computers that used Intel-Pentium processors, but allowed a performance comparable to that of a Pentium-II, at a low price. It was a strategic vision for AMD to create more competitiveness in the market war against Intel.
The versions of this processor went from 166Mhz to 300Mhz, operating DRAM memories of up to 66Mhz FSB. It has 32+32Kb cache memory (data+instruction). It can be installed in Mobo with Socket 7, the same used by Pentium1.
Nearly 9 million transistors were integrated into the chip, which also contained the MMX instruction set.
👉 K6-2
Presented in mid-1998, this AMD processor was an improvement over the original K6. The new feature was the AMD 3D Now instruction set, reserved for improvements in graphic vectorization, games and similar, in addition to MMX. With 9.3 million transistors, it operated in versions from 266Mhz to 500Mhz, compatible with 100Mhz FSB RAM. The model was also equipped with 64Kb of L1 (32+32) and 128Kb L2 cache, providing incredible performance. Versions still operate with voltages below the core 2.2V. It was compatible with Socket 7 or Super 7.
👉K6-III
👉Athlon /XP/MP (K7)
Athlon originally released in 1999, was the first processor to achieve a clock speed above 1Ghz! In the first versions the clock speed was 500 to 700Mhz. Later came versions with 1Ghz and 1.4Ghz! This fact marks the series of differences in relation to Intel processors, some processor chips of this series, reaches incredible temperatures, and without adequate cooling, can literally burn the motherboard!
With cache memory versions between 256Kb and 512Kb, they can operate with RAM memories of up to 100Mhz FSB.
The third generation (XP) was released in 2001, and versions had from 1.33Ghz to 2.33Ghz clock speeds, operating with RAM up to 200Mhz FSB in some models.
Athlon MP, was a series capable of working in dual-core.
They support instruction set MMX, SSE, 3Dnow AMD. Use Socket A.
👉Duron (K7)
Presented by AMD in 2000, this processor aimed to replace the old Athlon, and the competitors Pentium3 and Celeron from Intel. With versions from 600Mhz to 1.8Ghz, it operates with RAM memories of up to 266Mhz FSB, and has a cache memory of 64Kb (32+32).
They use Socket A, support the MMX, SSE, 3Dnow AMD instruction set.
👉Sempron (K7)
Introduced in 2004, this line of AMD processors was focused on competing with the Intel Celeron, and also replacing the obsolete Duron. With L1 cache versions (256/512Kb), clock speeds from 1.5Ghz to 2.0 Ghz and operating with RAM memories of up to 200Mhz FSB. Not to be confused with the other generation of Sempron processors, here we are only addressing the first generation. The standard socket of this generation is A.
AMD in the Era of 64 Bit Processors. AMD64
👉Athlon 64 (K8) / X2/ FX
The new generation introduced in 2004, reaches clocks of 1Ghz to 2.9Ghz, 32/64bits, and operates RAM memory of up to 2.7Ghz FSB. With versions for sockets AM2, AM3, 754,939.
Sempron CPU
This new model, still available on AMD's website, brings the new Sempron line divided into CPU chips, with models (140/145/150) running from 2.7Ghz to 2.9Ghz with 1Mb L1 cache. Standard AM3 socket.
Sempron APU
Available in two models (2650/3850) with 2 or 4 cores, they have an approximate clock speed of 1.35Ghz, and have an L1 cache of (1/2Mb). These two chips bring the combination of CPU+GPU in a single chip, providing practicality and economy for assembling onboard machines.
The standard socket is AM1. Don't forget to check out AMD's AX APU series below.
Phenon II (Current)
Introduced in late 2008 with socket AM2+ or AM3. It is a multi-core processor (X2, X3, X4 or X6) operating at 2.5 to 3.7Ghz. Support for instruction sets (MMX, SSE, SSE3, SS4a).
Some models include an internal Radeon GPU. With 64Kb L1 cache, 512Kb L2 cache and up to 6Mb L3 cache. Model currently in production, see the manufacturer's website for available models.
Some models include an internal Radeon GPU. With 64Kb L1 cache, 512Kb L2 cache and up to 6Mb L3 cache. Model currently in production, see the manufacturer's website for available models.
Athlon/Athlon II (Current)
Introduced in 2009, it is a mid-range processor, with considered cost-benefit. It is dual-core or Quad (X2 or X4). Versions for socket FM1/FM2 AM2+/AM3. Clocks from 1.6Ghz to 3.5Ghz and still have the exclusive AMD Hyper transport technology that uses a bus for RAM memory from 1.8 to 2.0 Ghz! Access this processor's page on the manufacturer's website and check out the models and technical specifications.
Access the page for the X2 and X4 Athlon here another processor model.
Serie A (APU) - Current
The APU chip can have from 2 to 4 cores.
The AX Series is the newest AMD/ATI merger, and have many more features than the APU-Sempron line.
APU (Accelerated Processing Unit): It is an acronym that indicates that the chip has a CPU + GPU built in, all in a single unit. There are still those who prefer the CPU+GPU combination separately (like me), however for smartphones and video game consoles, APUs are a miracle solution, the best of both worlds with little space and low power consumption.
Personally, I'm not a fan of APUs for desktops, but for gadgets I believe that APUs will be a widely used technology.
The cache memories of the models are L1 128K L2 (4/6/8 Mb) 8Mb L3, all use AM3+ socket
Supports DDR3 memories up to 1866Mhz clock
This series is especially dedicated to fans of insane speeds, or for those who want really ultra-necessary 3D games and performances outside the standards. They are not processors for ordinary people, both because of the high price $$ and the more complex configuration. Mobo are special for them.
FX 41XX- Series with Quad Cores (4 cores)
FX 6XXX- Series with Six Cores (6 cores)
FX 81XX- Series with Eight Cores (8 cores)
FX 9590/9370 - Super Overclocking (8 cores or +fastest on the current market)**
**Due to the high temperature (TDP of up to 220W!) these super-processors require special cooling systems (forget about fans); in addition to needing a very powerful power supply (1000W or more).
RYZEN Series ( The most PowerFull AMD Processor Nowadays)
The Ryzen Series is AMD's most modern family of next-generation processors with 64-bit processing!
Based on the ZEN microarchitecture!
With models starting with Ryzen 3/5/7/and Ryzem 9, the top of the line!
They are already factory unlocked for enthusiasts who love overclocking!
They use socket AM4 operating DDR4 memories with 2666 MHz in the first generation 1000 series.
With the second generation we already have support for DDR4 with 2933 MHz.
In the third generation 3000 Series we already have Radeon Graphics integrated into the processor with better processing for games!
Fourth generation processors already integrate PCi-e 5.0, Wi-Fi 6E5, AMD Expo technologies, reaching up to 32 CORES, the most top processors currently manufactured (2025).
The Ryzem 9000 series already includes advanced AI for tasks.
Support for DRR5 memory with speeds up to 8Ghz!
Special models feature AMD 3DV-Cache with up to 144 Mb! Incredible cache for the best processing in the world today!
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