Sure, you probably know their names – AMD Phenom™ processor, AMD Athlon™ 64, AMD Turion™ 64 X2 dual-core mobile technology and the AMD Opteron™ processor -- but do you really know the differences between these four families of processors AMD offers to perform with different computer systems?

AMD’s newly introduced AMD Phenom quad-core processors for desktops offer multi-core performance for life-like gaming, crystal-clear digital media, and serious megatasking. Built from the ground up for true quad-core performance, AMD Phenom processors speed through advanced multitasking, critical business productivity, advanced visual design and modeling, serious gaming, and visually stunning digital media and entertainment.

AMD Turion 64 X2 dual-core mobile technology is designed specifically for mobile applications in notebook computers. This is a dual-core processor running at 2.3 gigahertz per core. Importantly, AMD Turion 64 X2 dual-core mobile technology is designed to help lower power consumption, extend battery life, enhance security, ensure wireless compatibility, support virtualization, and more.

The AMD Athlon 64 processor comes in a wide variety of configurations to fit your computing needs, including PCs, notebooks, and workstations. Varieties span the gamut of a single-core processor ranging from 2.4 to 3 gigabytes per second, to dual-cores that give you 3.2 gigahertz per second/per core. The AMD Athlon 64 processor can also run programs designed for 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems.

The Quad-Core AMD Opteron processors with Direct Connect Architecture deliver outstanding performance, optimal virtualization, enhanced power efficiency, and low TCO (total cost of ownership) – all within a consistent footprint, and power and thermal envelopes.

By offering this choice of processor families, AMD gives you the ability to choose computers equipped with processors designed to fit your specific needs.

Still not sure which one is right for you? Visit amd.com/helpmedecide.

-- Bruce Freeman