Chip vendor AMD last week added three new processor models to its Opteron processor range for 64bit workstations and servers. The chips introduce new speeds to the Opteron family, and add support for faster memory components, which will lead to higher-performance workstation and server systems.

The Opteron models 148, 248 and 848 extend AMD's 64bit processor family to a clock speed of 2.2GHz. The 248 model for dual-processor systems is available immediately. The 148 model for single-processor systems will ship next month, along with the 848 model, which is aimed at enterprise-class eight-way servers.

The Opteron chips also add support for PC3200 memory, which consists of double data rate (DDR) RAM clocked at 400MHz. Previous Opterons have only supported DDR memory up to 333MHz. This memory support will be added to existing 146, 246 and 846 chips that run at 2GHz as well as all future Opteron models, AMD said.

The Opteron family, launched earlier this year, is based on the AMD64 architecture. This allows firms to run existing 32bit software such as Windows, but extends the x86 architecture of current PC chips to also support 64bit operating systems and applications. AMD's Athlon 64 desktop chip is based on the same architecture.

"IT managers, small and medium businesses, and workstation users are increasingly interested in products that meet their immediate needs for 32bit processing power and protect their investments as they move to the next phase of computing with 64bit tools," said Marty Seyer, vice president of AMD's microprocessor business unit.