Chicago (IL) - Intel sets the stage for introducing its second-generation dual-core processors. The Pentium D 900-series with 65 nm "Presler" core will succeed the current Pentium D 800 with 90 nm "Smithfield" core in January of next year. According to sources, Intel will launch five Pentium D 900 models, with only one Pentium D 800 model to be carried over into 2006.

The new flagship processor will be the Extreme Edition 955 processor. The chip will run at 3.46 GHz, bring a 1066 MHz front side bus and will be offered in combination with the new 975X chipset - which will offer a choice between one x16 port or two x8 ports for dual graphics capability. According to sources, Intel will price its 955 model at $999. The dual-core Extreme Edition 840 and single core 3.73 GHz model will be dropped at the time of the 955's introduction.

The regular Pentium D 900 lineup will include the 3.4 GHz model 950 ($637), the 3.2 GHz 940 ($423), the 3 GHz 930 ($316) and the 2.8 GHz 920 ($241). The Pentium D 840 (3.2 GHz) will continue to be offered after the Pentium D 900 launch, but decrease in price from currently $530 to $423 in January. Pricing the 840 model at the same level as the 940 version is likely to accelerate the departure of the first-generation dual-cores, as the 900 series will bring more performance, lower consumption and support for Intel's virtualization technology.

Coinciding with the launch of the mobile dual-core processor "Yonah", Intel is expected to provide details about its mini entertainment PC platform. According to sources, this platform will be based on 945GM and 945GT chipsets.

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