AMD A10: With 384 Graphics Cores

In 2011 we had reviewed AMD's Fusion based `Llano' processor (http://bit.ly/W5NSyW). This time we are featuring the next in line of the same family, code named ‘Trinity'. Like llano, Trinity is also a quad core processor series for and has been fabricated on 32nm manufacturing process. It features 4 MB of L2 cache alongwith with Radeon HD 7660D based integrated graphics.

Trinity A10 when compared to other members of APU (accelerated processing unit-name given to market integrated graphics containing processors) family is way ahead. If we compare clock speeds for both CPU and GPU with other variants of the same family, then we can get a taste of its superiority. A10 CPU's clock speed can go up to 4.2 GHz (without overclocking) which is way ahead of competition (Intel Core ix family) and best in class. When it comes to GPUs, the clock speed of A10 can clock 800 MHz, which is far better than other members of the family and competition (without Turbo Boost). On the number of GPU cores, the A10 is again among the leaders with 384 cores on die with only A8 (38XX) series ahead of it with 400 cores.

But if you want all that power, then you won't simply be able to pull out your llano CPU and plug this one in because both use diff erent sockets. While llano supports FM1 socket based motherboards, Trinity uses a newer FM2 socket along with an A85X chipset.

How we tested

We used Windows 7 Ulti mate 64-bit OS with 4 GB of RAM, SSD drive, and Asus F2A85-MPRO motherboard. To test graphics performance, we used 3DMark06 and

CineBench release 11.5 OpenGL score. In our setup, the A10 58000K was able to give a score of 4107 in 3DMark and 17.51 fps in CineBench. Here, 3DMark score is lower than the A8-3850 score of 5490 as the latter has more graphics cores than A10 58000K.

While checking CPU performance using CineBench, A10 managed a score of 3.13, which again is similar to A8 mentioned above. The overall PC performance was

measured using PCMark Vintage benchmark. Here, the A10 was able to score 9734, way ahead of A8 or Ivy Bridge based Intel Core i7 (find review here:http://bit.

ly/X5DtBN).

We also ran a full HD video @ 60 fps. The movie ran perfectly and was a treat to watch.