The new version of AMD's K10.5 core is getting the clocks up at the same TDP and this will be a good chance to launch the fastest desktop 45W quad-core CPU to date.

The name is Athlon II X4 615e is based on Propus without L3 cache, and its quite impressive that a 2.5GHz quad-core can run at quite low 45W TDP. The CPU has 4x512KB L2 cache and gives quite good performance.

This CPU will top and replace the current 45W low power leader, Athlon II X4 610e that works 2.4GHz. AMD also has 25W dual core Athlon II X2 2x0u CPUs but these guys have the top frequency of a rather unimpressive 1.8GHz.

The new Athlon II X4 615e comes in Q3 2010 and after this one, it doesn’t look like there will be any new Propus-based 45W quad-cores by the end of 2010. Once again, we will have to wait for Bulldozer-based quads to spice up this market.