Intel announced the release of a new processor, the Core i7 980X in 2010. This six core processor has been designed under the codename Gulftown, and internet rumors about its features and performance have been rife. Many people expected the chip to be branded as the i9, rather than added to the existing i7 range.

The Intel Core i7 980X processor is a six core, twelve thread, 32nm manufactured chips with 12MB of L3 cache memory, 130W thermal design power and a 6.4 GT/s Quickpath Interconnect. It also has a DDR3 1066 memory integrated memory controller.

The i7 980X is the first six core processor to be developed by Intel. It has two more cores than its predecessors in the i7 range. It also has an L3 cache that is 50 percent bigger than the Core i7 Bloomfield processor.

Intel’s hyperthreading technology allows twelve threads to run in parallel, with each of the six cores being able to run two processes. This will improve performance and multitasking.

The i7 980X also employs Intel’s turbo boost technology that allows the processor to work faster automatically when some extra performance is necessary.

The difference in performance between the i7 980X and the older i7 processors only becomes apparent when running certain types of programs. Windows doesn’t start up any faster, and game performance is not improved. It is when working with video or creating 3D models that the capabilities of the new processor are employed. Performance with this type of activity is significantly improved, since they allow the multiple cores to work in parallel. The two extra cores in the i7 980X then make a huge difference.

The i7 980X is also more energy efficient than older Intel processors, and it produces less heat.

The Intel Core i7 980X is a high-end processor that is designed for the sort of extreme performance that will only truly be used and appreciated by the most demanding computer owners.