Xeon is available today.
The article is discussing processors that will be available in the future that have higher performance comparable to Merced. DEC Alpha is available today as a 64-bit processor, but it's more of an evolutionary improvement of their previous processors. Merced will be a revolution that offers much more than improvements in clock speed. Unfortunately, the article didn't mention any benefits of the other processors other than clock speed. In particular, I'd expect a strong offering from Sun. They have the software support of the x86 line along with the technical prowess of the Alpha line, so I think they're the favorite.
Do you see any additional opportunities for PTEC implied in this article?
No. Merced is the only 64-bit processor Phoenix will support.
Will HP and IBM be likely to extend use of Phoenix for their BIOSs in their workstations?
Undoubtably. You need a compelling reason to switch BIOS vendors, which is why it was so expensive for Phoenix to land Intel, Compaq, and IBM.
If so, is it likely that Sun would also come over?
No.
And last, would CPQ be more inclined to use PTEC, to supply BIOSs for the Alpha workstations in their Commercial Division, in order to get a leg up in preparation for Merced?
An Alphastation doesn't use a BIOS. Compaq is a customer and competitor. |
