Dell Rolls Out Intel ‘Nehalem`-Powered Desktops

Dell is rolling out desktops PCs powered by Intel’s newest “Nehalem” processors.

The PC maker late yesterday unveiled the Studio XPS 8000 and XPS 9000 PCs, which it said were aimed at users with high-end multimedia capabilities.

The systems run Intel’s quad-core Core i5 and newest Core i7 processors, which are based on the chipmaker’s Nehalem architecture. Nehalem chips include such features as an integrated memory controller and Turbo Boost, which enables users to dynamically scale the chip’s power based on demand.

The Nehalem chips, which come with enhanced performance, virtualisation and energy efficiency capabilities, were first introduced in November 2008 with processors aimed at high-end PCs. Intel later rolled out the Xeon 5500 Series Nehalem EP processors for servers with one or two sockets.

At the same time, Intel yesterday launched its “Lynnfield” processors – including the Core i5 and latest Core i7 chip – for mainstream PCs.

Intel also released the Xeon 3400 Series for low-end servers. Dell’s Studio XPS 8000, which starts at $799 (£483), includes the Core i5 and Core i7 chips and is designed to offer high-end multimedia capabilities. It also includes integrated 7.1 high-definition surround sound, an optional Blu-ray Disc and Blu-ray Disc burner, and optional 3D capabilities.

The Studio XPS 9000 comes with enhanced graphics options. “Some people need every bit of performance they can get from their computer,” Michael Scheschuk, director of consumer products at Dell, said in a statement. “The Studio XPS 8000 and Studio XPS 9000 are some of the most powerful computers we have ever offered.”