Fresh from the launch of its second generation six-core workstation / server CPUs, the uber-fast and Xeon 5600-series, Intel is now ready to unveil its first ever eight-core CPU. Meet the Xeon X7500-series, codename Nehalem EX - we put it through its paces in a 64-thread test system.

Intel launches the fastest processor ever in the shape of the Core i7-975 Extreme Edition. With the new D0 stepping, it's a great overclocker, but there's a price to match that makes the CPU of limited appeal. Still, expect this CPU to be breaking all the benchmark records for the next six months.

If you thought Core i7 was fast, prepare to be shocked all over again - you can run two Nehalem EP Xeon W5580s together in one motherboard. We take a look at Intel's latest workstation/server CPU which is up to 93 per cent faster than previous Core 2 architecture Xeons.