AMD Mendocino is a CPU microprocessor. In order to function, a computer needs both a CPU and motherboard. The AMD Mendocino was released in early 1999 and was one of the first CPUs to be based on the Socket 7 platform. It used an integrated heat spreader (IHS) which helped to improve its thermal performance. The AMD Mendocino was succeeded by the Athlon XP in 2001.