First 65nm Chipset

According to AMD, the 7-series chipset is the first chipset to be fabricated using the 65nm process technology. This allows the chipsets to deliver a low TDP of only 10-12 W, which is slightly less than half that of the Intel X38 Express chipset.

Of course, this is partly due to the fact that the AMD 790FX lacks a memory controller. With the memory controller already integrated into the AMD Phenom and all Athlon 64 (or newer) processors, the 790FX chipset can be made smaller and use less power.

Price Points

AMD intends to offer the 7-series motherboards at very affordable price points, especially at the higher SKUs. Of course, we will also have to consider the matter of availability and the actual price on the street.