A few years ago AMD introduced its AM2 socket which was used as the basis for many of their processors. This provided a very stable and cost effective upgrade path for users as it enabled them to purchase a motherboard, and then drop each new CPU directly into their system.As DDR3 started to appear on the market AMD upgraded to the AM3 socket which could still handle all the AM2 and AM2+ chips, but now could also accept the AM3 chips which had DDR3 controllers on board. The AMD Phenom II processors have been churned out regularly ever since, in multiple guises. We've had cut down dual core models for the budget conscious, slightly cut down quads for those seeking maximum bang-for-buck, and the full fat AMD Phenom II Black Edition 965 for those who want to obtain the ultimate performance from their AMD system.It's been a while since AMD have introduced a wholly new processor rather than a variant on the hugely successful Phenom II models, but today is such a day.