Features: Virtualization And TCPA

AMD has joined the pack in using Pacifica virtualization technology, equipping all Athlon 64 and FX CPUs with it. It is fully compatible with Intel's VT technology.

What's more, these CPUs have a new security feature that goes by the codename "Presidio". This refers to support for TCPA/Palladium, which Intel calls Vanderpool. AMD thus places itself in the software developers' camp, in an effort to stem the flow of pirate copies and ensure more security for sensitive applications in banking, the military sphere and public services.

AMD has yet to announce any more concrete information about either feature. Whether this is a deliberate or not is as of yet unclear. Sempron64 processors do not support either feature yet.

Prices And Extra Costs For Less Dissipation

AMD doesn't come cheap if you're looking for a processor with lower thermal dissipation: price differences of 3.9% to 33.1% are the order of the day. The pricing for the Sempron CPUs in the lower energy classes is clearly exaggerated. Soon, what appeared to be a bargain quickly gobbles up money, sometimes making it a third more expensive than the conventional model.

AMD knows that CPUs with lower dissipation are very popular, and so they want to make money from them. You'll have to pay more if you want a reasonably priced CPU for overclocking.