Core/Core2/Core Extreme? Help?!?

[Xaneden]

Hey Guys,
I've always tried to keep up to date with the hardware news. However, I'm frankly perplexed as far as the new Intel naming system is concerned.

I understand that the Core Duo processor is a laptop one. However, there's a Core2 processor, which I presume is for desktops. Does this mean Core2 is the next generation of processors designed to supercede Core, or is the '2' there to denote Desktop? And then of course, there are the 'extreme' editions of the Core2...

Could someone please explain how this new naming system works, and what each of these processors are designed for (laptop or desktop) etc. I'm a little to say the least.

Thanks, Xaneden.

[Hottentot]

Arguably all the core processors were designed for laptops but proved to be so good intel just rolled them out to the desktop to replace the pentium 4s.

Core duo was for laptops but if you get the right mobo you can put it in a desktop.
Core 2 duo is the next evolution of the core duo and will be in both laptops and desktops.
Core 2 duo extreme is the fastest (2.93GHz) version of the core 2 duo family.
The replacement for core 2 duo ? is already on its way for next year and will involve a change of socket again.

I must admit the new naming systems are as clear as mud to me and you have the added complication that newer processors don't work in older mobos even if they are the same socket.

[Xaneden]

Thanks for clearin gthat up Hottentot; I presume Core2 processors will be available for laptops in the near future then?

[Hottentot]

I have seen press announcements but not any products you can order yet. Probably some available for pre-order if you look around.

[dancingmatt]

Overclockers have them for pre-order.

But does anyone really think they'll be able to get hold of one near the release date July 23rd? Aren't they all going to be snapped up by Dell and co. and there won't be any for us to build with?

DM