I think they used to make toasters, but they changed the mask to .33mu and now they make hand warmers.
As far as financial solvency is concerned, I think you will be (actually maybe you won't be but I will be) pleasantly surprised by this quarter's report. It seems that they sold their entire inventory of p133-p150 chips and now have trouble meeting the demand for p166+ and p200+. They vendors that (admittedly biased) Cyrix thread poster's have spoken with have been unable to meet demand. The 5gx86 is scheduled for rollout in Feb and rumors are that Compaq has made a deal for these thin client machines. I think that Cyrix has been able to demonstrate to box makers that a) they have a complete line of processors 5gx86, 6x86, m2; b) these chips are competitve with Intel at 1/3 to 1/2 the price, c) Cyrix will be solvent and around for the next round, and the round after that) d) box makers and consumers can and will save alot by having a viable alternative to Intel.
I agree that their marketing requires work. I am not sure what to say about your comment re incompetant management. Taking on Intel is just not an easy task. Cyrix doesn't have the advertising budget that Intel has. And they don't have the clout with Tier1's yet. It just a matter of persistence, and increasing market share. I think this quarter will be very encouraging in that regard. I also don't think Cyrix will be bought out. I think the current confusion Intel is showing in its product line, its problematic implimentation of MMX, and the incredible bullishness of the investing community is all a sign that Intel is topping out. Of course I said that when it was $110, so I am obviously not that accurate at predicting a top. However looking at the comparative valuation, $122 billion for Intel, $380 million for Cyrix, which one has the most upside potential? |
