RE: Llano
After having read a few reviews on mobile Llano and desktop Llano, I have a few takeaways.
(1) Mobile Llano meets the goal of targeting the mainstream notebook segments of 499~599. Power consumption is the bright spot. GPU falls a little short of Full HD gaming, but still a mile above Intel HD3000. CPU is a known laggard, but sufficient for the targeted consumers for this price sensitive range. A not-so-obvious advantage could be for the ODMs/OEMs to build the platform (APU+motherboard) cheaper than the competing i3 platform.
(2) Desktop Llano is underwhelming, mainly due to the fact that the IGP falls short of Full HD gaming. The power consumption is too high for mini-itx form factors. From the restrictions on A8-3850, I can tell that GF has difficulties in bin splits AND yields in making the desired dies. If A8-3850 were to have Turbo Core AND TDP 65W, I would give it a pass.
(3) Overall, mobile Llano should help AMD gain market share in the notebook segments. But, it may be difficult for AMD to maintain its market share in the desktop segments. My perception is that AMD is definitely going for a new stepping of Llano in order to gain overall market share in the PC segment. Krishna and Trinity cannot come sooner, for this duo is going to make or break AMD before Intel floods the market with 22nm core imeanlesssomethings.
AMD the stock has discounted a top line shortfall and this underwhelming Llano introduction. BD and SI may be able to make up a little. But the battle line is put further forward in 2012. That means I have to wait a little longer for my holdings to work out:^)
Tablet is getting old, just my feeling. Nothing new to my original view on this fad. Outside iPad2, nothing is exciting for $499. Meanwhile, I am waiting for iPad3 with Retina display. AAPL is going 350 and 400......
INTC being what it is, printing money and going 22nm crazy. |
