AMD Confidential

User Manual

November 21st, 2008

7.10 AMD 8th Generation Integrated Northbridge Device

The AMD 8th Generation Integrated Northbridge device supports the AMD 8th generation family of processors - AMD Athlon™ 64 and AMD Opteron™ processors. Although the physical processor chip has a Northbridge built in, for simulation purposes, the Northbridge is considered as a separate unit. Features include HyperTransport™ technology (for coherent and non-coherent connections) and a memory controller. The integrated debugging functions of the 8th generation processors are not included.

Interface

The Northbridge device has several connection points. It has multiple HyperTransport bus ports that connects to the other AMD 8th Generation Integrated Northbridge devices, or to HyperTransport link-capable devices (e.g., AMD-8131 PCI-X device). These ports are mutually exclusive, and should be connected to only one other device. The Northbridge also has a memory bus to the DIMM devices. The CPU bus gives connection points for the CPU. The final port is a system-message bus port for connection with a Log device. A 940-pin 8th generation processor part (AMD Opteron) has three HyperTransport ports; a 754-pin 8th generation processor part (AMD Athlon 64) has one HyperTransport port.

Initialization and Reset State

When first initialized, the Northbridge device is in the default state. This is described in detail in the 8th generation processor PCI register specification.

When reset, the Northbridge device takes on all default register values.

Contents of a BSD

The BSD file contains the contents of all Northbridge registers. It also saves the contents of any tables and the states of all internal devices (the memory controller, HyperTransport table contents, etc.). When the BSD file is read in, all tables are filled with past data, and all states are restored to their saved states.

Configuration Options

Figure 7-17and Figure 7-18show configuration options for the Northbridge.

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Chapter 7: Device Configuration

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AMD 4.4.5 AMD 8th Generation Integrated Northbridge Device, 17and -18show configuration options for the Northbridge

4.4.5 specifications

AMD 4.4.5 is a robust version of the AMD software ecosystem that focuses on enhanced performance, stability, and efficiency for users relying on AMD processors and graphics cards. This iteration brings various features and technologies designed to optimize gaming, professional applications, and general computing tasks.

One of the standout enhancements in AMD 4.4.5 is the integration of Smart Access Memory technology, which allows the CPU to access the full graphics memory directly. This feature enhances data flow between the CPU and GPU, leading to improved frame rates and overall performance, especially in memory-intensive games. Users can experience a marked increase in gaming performance without the need for additional hardware upgrades.

Another significant feature introduced is the updated Radeon Software Adrenalin Edition. This software update encompasses optimizations for various games, ensuring that gamers can enjoy a seamless experience with the latest titles. The Adrenalin interface also provides features such as Radeon Chill, which helps reduce power consumption during less demanding scenes, and Radeon Anti-Lag, designed to minimize input lag and enhance responsiveness in competitive gaming.

Additionally, AMD 4.4.5 brings the latest drivers that include important performance enhancements and bug fixes that allow for greater system stability. Regular updates ensure that users have the best experience with their AMD hardware, and it significantly bolsters compatibility with the latest gaming titles and software applications.

AMD's Enhanced Sync technology offers users the ability to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering while delivering smooth gameplay. It dynamically synchronizes the refresh rate of the display with the frame rates produced by the GPU, improving the visual experience significantly.

With the introduction of FidelityFX Super Resolution, AMD continues to bolster its suite of technologies that enhance graphics quality and performance. This feature allows lower-resolution images to be upscaled effectively, making it easier for users to enjoy high-end visuals without taxing their hardware excessively.

In summary, AMD 4.4.5 represents a comprehensive update for users by integrating cutting-edge technologies that cater to a wide range of applications from gaming to content creation. With enhancements across the board, AMD reaffirms its commitment to providing high-performance solutions that keep pace with the ever-evolving technology landscape. Whether for gaming aficionados or professional creators, the capabilities offered in this version make it a significant milestone in the AMD software ecosystem.