Dell and AMD back on track with new desktops

Following a bumpy long term relationship between Dell and chipmaker AMD, it seems the companies are on smooth ground again as Dell has started pushing a new AMD-based desktop lineup.

The new range, which includes the Inspiron 546, got the internet buzzing about the rekindling relationship, as the PC took pride of place on Dell's website.

Known more for working with Intel and only dipping its toe into AMD waters, it surprised many people that Dell publicised the 546 so well. It has been 18 months since a mainstream AMD processor-based product has been prominent on Dell's website.

AMD bosses are clearly pleased with the improvements. Bob Grimm, AMD's director of client product marketing, told Statesman.com: "We lost a lot of presence on their website, and we were disappointed by it. There are real sales dollars associated with products on their web site. We are more excited now with the 546 and what it represents."

He added: "It is AMD showing up back in force in the meat of the desktop line. It was an all-Intel SKU for a while, and now it is an all-AMD SKU."

IT PRO contacted Dell for comment but it had not responded to our request at the time of publication.

The Inspiron 546 starts at 279 and is available now.