AMD has started shipping its Phenom X3 8000 series triple-core processors.

The Phenom X3 series are the only triple-core x86 processors on the market, according to AMD.

The new range is designed to work best with AMD's recently unveiled 780 series chipset, which can give users high-definition on a mainstream PC.

"In 2007, AMD committed to delivering AMD Phenom triple-core processors in Q1 2008 and today the company makes good on that promise," said Bob Brewer, corporate vice president of strategic marketing at AMD.

The X3 CPUs will initially be available in two flavours: the 8400 which runs at 2.1GHz and the 8600 which clocks at 2.3GHz. Both are expected to be available first from OEMs and system builders.

AMD also announced the availability of its Phenom X4 9100e quad-core processors, the world's first energy-efficient desktop quad-core processor, which operates at a maximum of 65W.