AMD adds ECC support to its 64bit processors

Chip manufacturer moves to increase the reliability of entry-level one-way servers and workstations

AMD has responded to requests to include support for error correcting code (ECC) unbuffered memory on its Opteron 100 series of 64bit processors.

The move is designed to increase the reliability of entry-level one-way servers and workstations, which AMD has claimed are now being purchased in large numbers for running critical applications. ECC is common in higher-end servers and is used for checking the integrity of data in DRam and correcting single-bit errors. ECC support will now be standard in all Opteron 100 processors and AMD will be extending the support to the dual-core Opteron 100 processors that are expected to ship in September.

The new processors use the existing AMD 939-pin package. Motherboard partners Supermicro Computer and Tyan Computer have already launched motherboards to support them. Sun is the first big name to launch servers based on the processors, claiming record-breaking performance from its Sun Ultra 20 Workstation.

Lisa Sieker, vice-president of marketing at the network systems group at Sun, said: “Adding the AMD Opteron 100 Series processors with ECC unbuffered memory support to our x64 workstation product line gives our customers even more break-through performance at lower costs than other competitive x64 workstations currently on the market.”

Marty Seyer, corporate vice-president of commercial and performance computing, microprocessor solutions sector at AMD, claimed: “This is going to enable our customers to offer even more compelling server and workstation solutions.”

The new Opteron 100 processors with ECC support start with the 144 model, priced at $125 in 1,000-unit quantities and range up to the 152 model priced at $799 in 1,000-unit quantities. Dual-Core versions of the processors will start at $417 and top out at $530.