Actually, there doesn't seem to any question about I2O being available now on numerous products and server motherboards. It is. Look in Intel's Intelligent I/O home page for source listings. Even though Windows NT, and other operating systems, have not been upgraded yet to incorporate the I2O compatibility patch, obviously they can be patched today as a software work-around.
The following FAQ came from COMPAQ's home page:
Q......Does the ProLiant 6000 support I2O?
A......Yes. The ProLiant 6000 offers full support for I2O. Our goal at Compaq is to continue delivering the highest achievable performance servers. By off-loading some processing to an intelligent I/O controller as we did on the Smart-2 Array Controller is one example of the type of creative innovation required to be successful. Several years ago, Compaq developed the Smart-2 Array Controller with on-board intelligence and dramatically improved performance, still true today. As an I2O Special Interest Group (SIG) Steering Committee member, Compaq continues to work with the standards committee to define I2O in order to simplify hardware and software device driver development and management, which should improve overall system availability and simplify system management for customers. As the technology matures, we expect better inter- and intra-system manageability and improved performance as more I/O devices have their own processors like the one used in the Smart-2 Array Controller.
While some intelligent I/O devices exist that predate I2O, it is clear from what COMPAQ, HP and others are indicating that they are coming to market now with I2O devices and fully intend to gravitate entirely to I2O in the future. The same thing is happening with device makers like Symbios Logic, Xpoint, etc.
No, my concern is not whether I2O is having success in the server arena, including various attached I/O devices. My question has to do strictly with the timing of when and for what processors the motherboard on the PC will contain I2O. When I2O finds a home on the PC motherboard, the numbers jump rapidly and extremely predictably to the high tens of millions - in addition to many millions already expected to be used in support of servers.
The other possibility is that I2O attaches to client workstations only via attached intelligent devices, like NICs, rather than being placed on the motherboard, available generally to any I2O compatible device. That's fine, and ultimately would amount to even more millions of units, but if it happens only this way, it is more difficult for me to time the production ramp up. I'm looking for a simple way to project large numbers of units confidently as of a specific date.
By the way, I noticed in the IBD today that the cable fiber industry is looking to cable TV companies now for as much business as they get from telephone companies - suggesting that cable TV companies are finding the money for two-way services someplace. I find it interesting that Ramsey is now a cable modem user in California; I expect to be in July on the east coast; and apparently your friend is in Boston (?). Seems like cable modems are becoming wide-spread.
Allen |
