AMD launched socketed Kabini parts a few weeks ago, along with the all new AM1 platform and FS1b socket (now renamed to AM1 socket). We checked it out a couple of weeks ago and as we pointed out in our brief review of the Athlon 5350 we really like the idea of bringing the flexibility of socketed platforms to this price tier.

However, the AM1 platform is brand new and it has some drawbacks. First of all the choice of motherborards is relatively limited and there are only four APUs to choose from. Since the socket and 25x25mm package are new, there are still no aftermarket coolers for AM1 chips. This means you?re stuck with AMD's stock cooler for the time being and it stands about 50mm tall. In other words it won't fit into many stylish mini-ITX chassis designed for HTPCs.