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So AMD
finally decided to convert their best processors (the FX Series) into dual
cores. My first thought is, wow I would like to get my hands on that and luckily
I get my chance at work. This time I have to build a new computer for my desk as
the old one fried because I overclocked it too much (I told them that the
processor was bad and have to buy/build a new system… Shhhhh). AMD says that it
is their intention to make the FX series processors the ultimate desktop PC
processor, therefore the jump to dual core technology. This dual core AMD
Athlon 64 FX-60 processor replaces the last top of the line processor
(the AMD Athlon 64 FX-57).
AMD claims that this new processor is perfect for not only games, but for all
multi-thread projects that would require a dual core processor. They will not
discontinue the FX-57 but are planning to get rid of it in the future. This
FX-60 by far is the best dual core processor available today; Intel does not
even come close.
Please refer to the
How to purchase a processor guide for
full details on what questions to ask yourself before purchasing a processor.
THE SYSTEM CONFIGURATION :
Processor: AMD Athlon 64 FX-60
Motherboard:
DFI LanParty UT nF4 SLI-DR
Video Card: eVGA
GeForce 7800 GT (256 MB)
Hard Drive: Western Digital 160GB
Power Supply: 500W
Operating System: Windows XP Professional
Memory: 2x Corsair 1GB PC3200 DDR
INSTALLATION :
Since this is also a 939 socket compatible processor, it is as easy to install
as all previous 939 processors. If you have installed as many processors as me,
you will be able to install these in a breeze. But AMD makes their processors
easy to install anyways. If you are not sure about something or if it is just
your first time installing these, just follow the instructions in the quick
installation guide. If you the steps listed in the guide properly, you should
have no problems what so ever. If you install the stock heatsink and fan, your
job will be even simpler, but you will need to follow instructions for other
heatsinks if you choose not to use the manufacturer supplied one.
Overclocking: I will let you in a little secret; this FX-60
is a very overclocking friendly processor. Even though, this is the fastest
processor available from AMD I easily achieved an overclocked speed of about
2.8GHz; I did not have the cooling system to go any higher (I used the stock
heatsink and fan for this overclock). I will certainly get better cooling on it
and try to go higher as I feel it is capable enough to go way higher. I have
read many articles that suggest this processor can be safely overclocked to
2.9GHz with better cooling. If you want to overclock your system, here are some
tips you can use: you should lower the HT (HyperTransport) multiplier to 3x or
4x or the HT frequency to 1.1GHz or lower; the default HT multiplier is set to
5x; you may need to raise the vcore voltage to 1.5V or 1.55V; you will
definitely need a very good cooling system; also use good thermal grease like
Arctic Silver for optimal performance.
I always like to not recommend overclocking your processor if you use the stock
heatsink and fan for cooling it, but in this case, I was able to overclock about
7 percent without it overheating or crashing. But I would still advice caution
as it is a very expensive processor and I assume everyone would regret frying
it. On the other hand, this processor is one of the fastest available, so you
technically do not have to overclock it. I would highly recommend you use Arctic
Silver thermal grease to install your heatsink because it transfers heat more
efficiently to keep your processor running cooler at all times. You can purchase
these from your local computer store or online for about five to eleven bucks a
piece.
Suggesstions: Even with normal usage, your heatsink
will/may accumulate dust and dirt, so the best thing to do to prevent it is to
clean the inside of your computer every two to three months or so. Some months
ago, I did not clean mine for over six months and the processor started running
hotter than usual, but after I cleaned the headsink and the inside of my
computer thoroughly, it was back to normal again. You can use the Falcon Dust
Off duster to blow all the dirt and dust off; it will only cost you between four
and nine dollars.
The First Boot: The first boot is always the trickiest one
of all as anything can happen. So it is best to clear your CMOS/Bios settings to
factory defaults to start out with a clean system; doing so will reduce the
chances of crashes and conflicts once you start installing stuff. Also, some new
systems will not work properly if you do not reset the settings. You may not
have to do this if you are just replacing or upgrading your processor. You can
always go back and change the settings to your needs once you have it working
properly.
Installing the Operating System: You will then need to install your favorite
operating system or if you already have an operating system installed, just boot
up. One thing to keep in mind when booting up for the first few times, is to
keep a close watch on the processor and memory (RAM) temperatures; especially if
you used a different heatsink and even more if you overclocked the processor. I
also suggest that you make sure the memory sticks you used are compatible and
can overclock without problems. If your memory sticks are one of the cheaper
one’s or are not compatible, you system may be unstable or will not boot at all.
WHATS HOT?
First and most important of all is the speed rating of this processor that makes
it stand out from the rest. Even though it is rated 200MHz (2.6GHz) lower than
its predecessor (the
FX-57), it still feels ways faster as it has dual cores.
I told my boss that I needed the fastest computer since I do a lot of data entry
or data related projects and slower system will just make my work slower. I
thought about it for a while and told me to get what I needed on company account
and should not worry about the cost. I was very delighted with his decision and
excited at the same time.
Now, when you compare any AMD processor with its competitor Intel, you may think
that AMD processor are slower (because of Intel’s higher speed ratings
standards) but when you use these processor for yourself, you will notice that
they perform way better than any Intel could. I will always recommend AMD
processors over any Intel because they are easy to overclock, install, use,
maintain, and plus they perform better.
You computer will boot up way faster (does not matter which operating system you
have installed) and your applications will startup much quicker than you would
expect. This is the fastest processor I have ever had experience with and I am
glad I got the chance to use it at work because I personally would not be able
to afford a system with this processor. If you cannot afford this Athlon 64
FX-60 or the FX-57,
I would highly recommend the
AMD Athlon 64 4000+ or
AMD Athlon 64 X2
4400+ as an alternative; they perform about the same but cost a lot
less.
Many customers of mine often ask me if 64-bit dual core processors actually are
better than the older 32-bit single core ones. I always assure them that it is
the best way to go. Once they try it for their selves, they know they will be
ready for the future with great power and performance. If the client does not
mind paying a bit more for the upgrade I would highly recommend this newer dual
core (FX-60) processor. I think the dual core processors are more powerful and
they will probably stick around for a long time and replace the single core FX
processors.
This processor uses the 939 pin design like most AMD 64-bit processors. The
1024KB x 2 (2048KB / 2MB total) L2 cache memory will run the 2000MHz (1000MHz x
2) of FSB (Front Side Bus) with maximum performance. You will experience more
power and speed if you combine this processor with the right motherboard that
will speed up you DDR memory. Everything on you computer will just startup
within a millisecond as you click it.
WHATS NOT?
You are probably wondering that this processor is too good to be true… right?
Well guess what, it is real and the performance and power is amazing. So I did
not really notice or experience any problems with this processor. All AMD
processors are very reliable and you can never go wrong with an AMD. I usually
update all software, drivers, and games to make sure there are no problems. I do
not like to take any chances with the systems I build, even though this one was
for me. I would recommend that you check for driver and software updates at
least once a month or as needed. I would also recommend updating your
motherboards Bois regularly to keep it performing at its best and to remove any
issues that exist.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE :
I have been using this new system for about a two or three weeks now and as of
now I have not found any problems of any kind; the whole system runs at
lightening speed and does not ever get hiccups with high maintenance software or
games. I overclocked it, but it has not overheated as of yet. I did perform some
benchmarks with 3DMark 05 and got a score of 7525 (actual data). CPU test 1
score was 4.1 frames per second, and CPU test 2 score was 6.6 frames per second
(higher is better in these tests). This benchmark is accurate as of January
10th, 2006. The computer runs very fast with Windows XP Pro SP2 installed on it
and boots up in just under 10 seconds and becomes ready for use.
WARRANTY INFORMATION :
As always, AMD provides a three-year limited hardware warranty that includes
phone support. You can visit
www.amd.com or dial (408)
749-3060 to get warranty support. You may be asked for the serial/model
number and date of purchase for this unit, which can easily be found by
following instruction in the manual or asking one of the representatives on the
phone.
FINAL THOUGHTS :
I just love using my new system at work and best of all I did not have to spend
a penny from my pocket to get it. I guess now I have to work extra hard for my
boss to make up for the loss. After using this processor for a few weeks, I wish
it was affordable so I could upgrade my own system. This is the best processor
for your gaming rig, but not everyone can afford it yet. The AMD Athlon 64 FX-60
is the boss of all processors. For all you tweakers and overclockers out there,
the multiplier is unlocked (whoohoo) so you can overclock more easily. Play
around with it and the FSB for some fun, but I would not recommend overclocking
a processor that costs over a thousand dollars.
If you want a very fast computer and do not care too much about the price, I
would highly recommend all FX series processors. You will definitely be amazed
by the speed and power of these processors. Best of all, your computer will
startup faster, all applications will run quicker, and you will be able to
multi-task seamlessly. And plus your pocket will be a lot lighter. |
