Ahead of its scheduled first quarter launch and an anticipated showdown with Intel in 2017, the highly hyped AMD Zen CPU will be tested whether or not it's about time for AMD to end the dominance of Intel in the microprocessor architecture.
This after the Advanced Micro Devices invited hard-core gamers to test its next generation CPU on its "New Horizon" event on December 13 (3 pm CST) in Austin, Texas. Among the gaming icons invited to put the newest AMD chipset to stress are video game journalist Geoff Keighley and e-gaming legend Peter "PPD" Dager.
"This is the first time the public will be able to try it themselves and see its capabilities. If you're serious about gaming, this is an event you do not want to miss," said the AMD in an official statement posted on its website.
While Intel set to unleash its seventh generation Kaby Lake processor early in 2017, excitement rests on AMD's Zen-based Summit Ridge processor. Whereas Kaby Lake hopes to build its footing on the prevailing smartphone development, the brand new Zen micro architecture will focus on high performance computer functions all the way down to mobile applications.
Powered by an 8-core, 16-thread platform, Zen processor aims to match or even outclass Core i7 6900K to end Intel's dominance in microprocessor development. Other notable features of this new AMD chipset include transistors based on energy-efficient FinFET process technology, access to 8MB of shared L3 cache, a large amount of "private" L2 cache, a micro-op cache, and two AES encryption units for security.
Dubbed as AMD's high-performance x86 Core, the "Zen" vows to deliver 40 percent improvement in instruction-per-clock (IPS) cycle than its predecessors without increasing its power requirement. If it fares well during the December 13 event, AMD Zen CPUs can surely build a strong market foundation with its price tag set within $200 to $300 range, way below than Intel's over $700.
For gamers who can't make it at Austin event, AMD offers free sign-up form for them to gain access to its live streaming feature to interact with on-site players during the event.
Watch on what to expect in the upcoming "New Horizon" event here: