Introduction

The Intel Core i7 is a new line of desktop processors based on the new Nehalem microarchitecture, which evolved from the Core microarchitecture which powered the highly successful Intel Core 2 line of microprocessors. Like its predecessors, the new Core i7 processors is manufactured using Intel's 45 nm fabrication process with high-k (hafnium) dielectric and metal gate technology. However, that is where the similarity ends.

Unlike the Core 2 processors, the new Core i7 processors have a monolithic design. That means the entire quad-core processor is fabricated on a single die. The quad-core version of the Core 2 processor, on the other hand, combines two dual-core dies in a multi-chip package (MCP). The Core i7 processor also introduces a slew of new technologies :

• an integrated DDR3 memory controller
• a three-tier cache design
• QuickPath Interconnect
• Intel Turbo Mode technology

Today, we will be taking a close look at the new Intel Core i7-975 Extreme Edition processor, which debuted on June 3, 2009. As Extreme Edition moniker hints, this processor comes with unlocked multipliers as well as a correspondingly hefty price tag.

Let's take a look at how the Core i7-975 Extreme Edition compares against its less-expensive brethren and some Core 2 processors.

Packaging

Our Intel Core i7-975 Extreme Edition came in nothing but a plain white envelope. Yes, you read it right - this is as minimalistic as it gets - the world's most expensive processor (at the time of posting) protected by nothing more than a sheet of paper. It saves a lot in terms of storage space, postage cost and all that, but we would advise against doing that with your own processor.

The actual retail packaging is a world of difference from this review sample. It comes in a nice black box (after all, what says classy and expensive more than the colour black?). That's just the outer cover though. Underneath is a plain white box similar to what we saw with the Intel Core i7-965 Extreme Edition processor (see pictures below). Inside, you will find a stock cooler enclosed within two plastic trays. The processor will be enclosed within its own plastic case.

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support out work by visiting our sponsors, participate in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donate to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!