DigitMemo.com

However, good news inside

SADLY FOR AMD, the Phenom launch was dumbed down by a nasty bug that stopped AMD from launching a 2.4 GHz variant (9700).

At the same time, problems with the OS freezing were solved by a BIOS fix inside the motherboards that actually reduces performance between five to 10 per cent, since that BIOS update did nothing but ordered a processor to avoid that ill-fated corrupted cache data.

The problem with L3 cache caused performance reduction on all clock speeds and yes, Phenoms 2.2 and 2.3 GHz are affected as well, but it was really noticable at 2.4 GHz. BIOS run-around caused a 2.4 GHz part producing performance of 100-200 MHz slower parts. Of course, standard disclaimer in some rare-found, practically laboratory-only instances applies here.

We managed to learn that AMD was able to fix that problem through a micro-code update that is being prepared as we speak, and this micro-code update should be implemented in every Phenom from 9600 Black Edition and beyond. If that does not happen, micro-code should come no later than Phenom 9900 (2.6 GHz) in late January.

If you already own a Phenom, this micro-code update will be packaged with one of next versions of BIOS for your motherboard. This fix will enable normal performance at clocks starting from 2.4 GHz and beyond.

However, we would advise AMD work with partners on offering a Windows-based utility, since not all users know how to flash a BIOS (in fact, quite the opposite). Heck, you might even advertise it as a “free performance upgrade” utility. If that is a no go, it would only be fair if AMD issues a major service call, asking users to return their systems to channel partners and OEMs for a free BIOS update.