AMD 30925 manual AMD Opteron Processor Key Architectural Features, AMD64 Architecture

30925 Rev. 3.04 February 2004	Builder’s Guide for AMD Opteron™ Processor-
	Based Servers and Workstations

Chapter 1 AMD Opteron™ Processor Key Architectural Features

The key architectural features of an AMD Opteron™ processor-based system include AMD64 architecture, integrated DDR DRAM memory controller, HyperTransport™ technology, and many other features.

Figure 1 shows a block diagram of the AMD Opteron processor architecture.

Figure 1. AMD Opteron™ Processor Architecture

1.1The AMD64 Architecture

AMD64 architecture allows end users to run existing, installed 32-bit applications and operating systems at peak performance, while providing a migration path that is 64-bit capable. It is designed to enable 64-bit computing while remaining compatible with the vast x86 software infrastructure. AMD64 architecture represents a new class of computing, enabling a single architecture across 32- and 64-bit environments.

Chapter 1 AMD Opteron™ Processor Key Architectural Features 9