Microsoft Corp. today announced it would add support for the AMD Opteron (TM) with Direct Connect Architecture in Microsoft� SQL Server (TM) 2005, the next generation of Microsoft's flagship database product. The enhanced functionality provides customers and partners with simultaneous high-performance 32- and 64-bit computing, which gives them the technical and business flexibility to solve their unique problems in a way that best meets their needs. In addition, it supplies customers with a compelling and cost-effective alternative to UNIX-based solutions through 64-bit capabilities that deliver both high scalability and lower cost of ownership. By introducing AMD Extended System architecture in SQL Server 2005, Microsoft is adding a new offering complementing the high-performance 64-bit Intel Itanium support in SQL Server 2000.

"The AMD Opteron processor provides SQL Server 2005 Beta 2 testers with the investment protection of outstanding overall x86 performance in both 32-bit and 64-bit computing environments. As enterprises transition from 32- to 64-bit computing, they need the smooth migration path to 64-bit computing that AMD64 provides," said Marty Seyer, corporate vice president and general manager of the Microprocessor Business Unit, Computation Products Group at AMD. "We invite beta testers to experience for themselves how AMD64 with Direct Connect Architecture can help eliminate the bottlenecks inherent in a front-side bus and improve overall system performance and efficiency."