Paul, I defer to your vastly superior knowledge of x86 and it's potential for further improvement. I will say that the playing field will level if/when x86 reaches it's limits. Many companies make the other components in PC's, if Intel is inclined to compete in those areas. If there is a new CPU technology that is to become dominant, Intel will lose it's x86 and Pentium franchise. With an 80%+ market share, a major shift in the market is inherantly dangerous. IMHO, you need to keep your eyes open over the next two years.
On a positive note, some completely unscientific personal market research:
1. I know two people who have bought new PC's in the last two weeks; I went with one of them, Computer City, here in Tampa, was very busy.
2. I called Gateway for Info (I'm going to buy a new PC soon). He said business was strong, I askes about Pent. vs. P. Pro, he said 1/3 of the home systems he sold were currently Pro systems.
I hope these experiences arn't unique, and that Intel will surprise with 3rd quarter results.
John |
