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To: The Duke of URL© who wrote (111823)	9/29/2000 3:05:23 PM
From: Tenchusatsu	Respond to of 186894

Duke, <I never could understand why TIMNA, which was a low end processor would use rdram, anyway> Keep in mind that major projects such as Timna are initiated years in advance. Several years ago, Intel probably thought that RDRAM would have become so ubiquitous that the cost would have been low enough for a low-end processor like Timna. RDRAM also helped save costs on the processor package, since the memory controller requires fewer pins than if Timna went with SDRAM. As we all know, the cost savings in Timna was more than offset by the high cost of RDRAM and the difficulty of its implementation. But by the time Intel figured that out, the Timna project had already advanced quite far. Tenchusatsu

To: The Duke of URL© who wrote (111823)	9/29/2000 3:05:43 PM
From: NITT	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 186894

re: "I never could understand why TIMNA, which was a low end processor would use rdram" I'm sure when Timna first got started the RDRAM premium was not expected to be anywhere near where it is. Manufacturers are gouging right now because they can... more manufacturers should help, but it's too late for Timna. Also, you have to decide where to put transistors... do you supply a bigger onboard cash, or memory controller, graphics, and bus interface. You can now pick up a highly integrated chipsets pretty cheap and drop a Celeron or PIII next to it. A late Timna was part of the cause. I see this as good for Intel, because if Timna was in the pipeline at an OEM they could not as easily sell up to Pentium, and Intel could not manage the mix as they can now. OEMs only need to stock one set of piece parts for low end to mid range PCs. Yes, this leaves Intel vulnerable at the low end, but the Xscale will squeeze from below for the Appliances and handhelds segments while Celeron and PIII squeeze from above. Not sure that leaves as big a market opportunity in between. I just hope Intel is done baring its soul for a while!!! Nitt