Devices and circuits

Article Abstract:

Intel's Itanium microprocessor will break the 1GHz barrier. Along with the greater clock speed, Intel promises improved all-around performance from its new IA-64 architecture. The 64-bit design schedules instructions through the compiler rather than hardware. Instructions enter the processor in pre-bundled 128-bit words containing three instructions and a routing template. As processor speeds climb higher, some scientists warn that the fundamental limits of CMOS technology are being approached. IBM has introduced the Power 4, a 64-bit implementation of the Power PC architecture. It is also supposed to clock at 1GHz plus. These processors will not realize their full potential until memory and bus speeds catch up with them. Rambus DRAM architecture, though still expensive, may answer that need. Rambus proprietary architecture consists of a memory controller, a high speed bus, and specially designed DRAM modules that can combine to provide speeds up to 1.6 Gbps.

Semiconductor Devices, IC Memory Chips, Research, Product development, Product description/specification, Processor architecture, Processor architectures, International Business Machines Corp., IBM, Semiconductor memory, Computer memory, Rambus Inc., RMBS, Intel Itanium (Microprocessor), Rambus Direct RDRAM (Semiconductor memory), IBM Power4 (Microprocessor)

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Transmeta's magic show

Article Abstract:

Transmeta Corp's Crusoe microprocessor, begun in 1995, has required five years and $100 million of capital funding to develop. The result is a fast, low-power processor that can run the same software that runs on IBM PC-compatible personal computers. Transmeta's device in no way resembles an x86 processor. Rather, a streamlined microprocessor design is surrounded by innovative software that translates x86 programs into code that the simpler processor can understand. Transmeta's chip that targets the mobile market is called the TM5400.

Product specifications, Cover Story, Design and construction, Transmeta Corp., Transmeta Crusoe (Microprocessor), Transmeta TM5400 (Microprocessor)

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Intel bets on Centrino to spawn new laptop generation; but wireless Internet access disappoints manufacturers

Article Abstract:

Intel's Centrino technnology, designed with the mobile computer user in mind, consists of a Pentium M processor, two logic chips for functions such as graphics and I/O, and a card for wireless access. The product's design for wireless access is regarded by critics as a weakness.

Marketing procedures, Facilities & equipment, Marketing, Equipment and supplies, Company marketing practices, Laptop/portable computer, Laptop computers, Portable computers, Wireless Internet access

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