Some time ago we had the chance to review the first batch of Intel's 45nm quad-core cpu processors code-named Yorkfield and today we will examine the latest and fastest Wolfdale C2D processor, the Intel C2D E8600.

All the latest Wolfdale processors come with a 6MB L2 cache and feature support a 1333MHz FSB.

Let's start with a quick comparison amongthe various C2D series of processors.

The Intel E8600 has several "new" features/improvements compared with previous Wolfdale processors. The differences between C0 and E0 core steppings may not interest you ta all, but there are present and will hopefully offer higher overclocking.

According to an Intel document there is a new function called "Power Status Indicator", that allows motherboards drop their VRM down from a multi-phase circuit to a single-phase circuit to save power at idle state.

There were also two additional instructions added to the instruction set, the XSAVE and the XRSTOR, neither of which are world changing. Lastly, the E0 stepping features a step towards being green with the introduction of a halide-free package.

- Specifications