AMD today announced that Sauber Petronas will implement a server cluster based on the AMD Opteron processor with Direct Connect Architecture. The cluster is designed to deliver increased performance for the Swiss Formula One team as part of their aerodynamics research and development efforts. Sauber selected AMD Opteron processor-based solutions to help achieve greater progress particularly in the field of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), a critical factor complementing Sauber's aerodynamics and wind tunnel testing. "The entire field of aerodynamics and CFD is becoming increasingly important in Formula One, that's why it's crucial to have the right technology partners," said Peter Sauber, team principal for Sauber Petronas. When Sauber Petronas decided to upgrade their computing capabilities in order to push the limits of their computer-aided research and performance, they carefully evaluated the 32-bit and 64-bit solutions available. Sauber's technology team determined that only the AMD Opteron processor met their technical requirements, by delivering the best overall 32-bit performance combined with the power of 64-bit computing. "It is clear that AMD is at the forefront in the area of 64-bit computing, and we believe AMD64 technology is the future in high-performance-computing," said Torbjorn Larsson, head of CFD at Sauber. "AMD is rapidly becoming recognized for high-performance computing in the highly competitive world of Formula One racing, and we look forward to working with Sauber to help them develop the cutting-edge solutions they require to be successful," said Henri Richard, AMD's executive vice president, worldwide sales and marketing. "By delivering unparalleled performance, the AMD Opteron processor with Direct Connect Architecture will allow Sauber to protect their current technology investments as well as gain a critical competitive advantage." AMD will provide the AMD64 platform to Sauber Petronas as an Official Technology Partner to the Swiss Formula One team. Demonstrating an unwavering focus on customer-centric innovation, AMD was the first to present an x86 dual-core strategy, and earlier this week became the first to announce the completion of an x86 dual-core processor design for 64-bit computing. AMD plans to deliver high-performance dual-core products to the x86 server market in mid-2005 and introduce dual-core solutions for high-end client PCs in the second half of 2005. As more solution providers join the AMD64 ecosystem, the industry is approaching the day when 32-bit-only systems will become obsolete.