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Technology Stocks : Rambus (RMBS) - Eagle or Penguin -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Bilow who wrote (73549)	5/23/2001 8:36:08 PM
From: richard surckla	Respond to of 93625

Mainboard manufacturers steering away from DDR May 23rd, 2001 6:40 PM - Brandon Hill Source: OCworkbench.com Category: News OCWorkbench has reported that momentum for DDR chipsets is slowing dow and could come to a hault. As sales of DDR boards are not well accepted. Taiwanese manufacturers like ASUS, GIGABYTE, MSI will stop developing their DDR product lines. Intel is slashing pricing of Pentium 4, and this will definitely increase the sales of P4. DDR and P4 are moving in opposite directions. Mainboard manufacturers says that the current market is not stable. PC133 SDRAM mainboards has matured and cheaper boards is more acceptable by the masses. The higher end DDR boards are squeezed out of the market. In addition, boards coupled with DDR+P3 performance is only 10% faster than the SDRAM+P3 platform. Thus ASUS,GIGABYTE,MSI R&D will stop their development of DDR boards. It is also mentioned that now most manufacturers are concentrating on OEM for PC133+Socket 478 mainboards. Chipgeek also reports "DDR Turmoil" geek.com Original source for all of these articles as Anandtech states....... ocworkbench.com Thanks to kerry_lass from the YAHOO board

To: Bilow who wrote (73549)	5/23/2001 8:44:11 PM
From: richard surckla	Respond to of 93625

You think that being a year old has changed anything? I didn't see Toshiba make any changes or retractions.

To: Bilow who wrote (73549)	5/23/2001 8:52:50 PM
From: richard surckla	Respond to of 93625

Microsoft to Release Windows XP Updated: Wed, May 23 7:56 PM EDT Current quotes (delayed 20 min.) MSFT 69.70 -0.61 (0.87%) INTC 28.80 -0.73 (2.47%) SEATTLE (AP) - Microsoft Corp. said Wednesday it will release a higher-powered 64-bit version of its planned Windows XP operating system aimed at supporting servers and other large-scale business applications. Both the server and the workstation versions of the operating system will be bundled with Intel's planned Itanium 64-bit processor and sold as part of a computer package, Microsoft said. The products will be released Oct. 25, the same day Microsoft rolls out its normal, 32-bit system, aimed at personal and business users. The systems will largely be available through computer manufacturers and geared toward business users with large databases or those using memory-draining technical applications, such as engineering programs. The bundled product aims to compete with Sun and other companies that make high-powered products for servers and businesses. Microsoft declined to specify pricing, saying it would depend on the other components. Thanks to edboy from the FOOL board

To: Bilow who wrote (73549)	5/23/2001 9:05:22 PM
From: richard surckla	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 93625

From DEJA... Sales of Pentium 4 motherboards outperform DDR-based motherboards... From: John Corse (john_corse@hotmail.com) Subject: Sales of P4 mobos outperform DDR mobos. DDR sales flop Newsgroups: comp.sys.ibm.pc.hardware.chips Date: 2001-05-15 09:27:44 PST digitimes.com 001/05/11&pages=09&seq=41 Sales of Pentium 4 motherboards outperform DDR-based motherboards for first time Hans Wu, Taipei; Liu Yi-fang, DigiTimes.com [Monday 14 May 2001] Earlier in the year, manufacturers of motherboards, DRAM chips and chipsets were confident that DDR-based architecture will replace SDRAM-compatible architecture in mainstream products by the third quarter of 2001 at the latest. After the DDR forum jointly hosted by VIA Technologies, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), DRAM chip suppliers, chipset makers and a few international IT heavyweights at the end of January, most of them had decided to focus their attention on DDR architecture. Recent market developments, however, may disappoint them. Stores in major computer marketplaces in Taiwan noted that due to the present economic stagnation, next-generation products like Rambus and DDR motherboards seem to be having difficulty generating a favorable response from consumers. Moreover, in the second quarter, the traditional off-peak season for the IT industry, consumers have tended to buy lower-cost SDRAM-compatible models. Motherboard distributors pointed out that in the first quarter of the year, all motherboard vendors still contended that DDR-based motherboards were more competitive than Rambus motherboards. Both first and second-tier manufacturers regarded DDR motherboards as the new focus for mass production. At that time, the Pentium 4 processor was too pricey, and DRAM chip makers were reluctant to mass-produce Rambus chips, so Rambus motherboards had no chance but to receive a lukewarm reception. DDR architecture, therefore, seemed to be the natural successor to SDRAM. However, while most motherboard makers have dedicated themselves to the DDR architecture, retailers are relatively conservative about it. Wholesalers noted that Pentium 4 motherboards were given to some shops on consignment in the first quarter because retailers believed that demand for DDR motherboards would rise between the third and fourth quarters. Therefore, they ordered far fewer Pentium 4-compatible models than DDR models in the first quarter. The situation, however, has reversed over the last few weeks. Motherboard distributors attributed the success of Pentium 4 motherboards over DDR ones to three factors. First, Intel dramatically reduced the price of the Pentium 4 at the end of April. Second, OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) have begun to add Pentium 4-based products to their next-generation product portfolios. Third, an international DRAM module maker has committed to begin mass production of Rambus modules. These changes now give Rambus architecture an opportunity to become the next-generation mainstream standard in the second half of 2001. Nevertheless, the window of opportunity for DDR motherboards may continue until the first or even second quarter of 2002 as consumer reception warms. However, motherboard distributors revealed that according to various testing reports, DDR architecture does not perform as well as expected and is unable to attract consumers to replace existing systems. In addition, considering how quickly the price of DDR modules has been falling and that it may continue to plunge to the level of SDRAM modules or even lower, consumers are hesitant about purchasing DDR products. A large number of stores have thus ceased ordering DDR motherboards. One motherboard wholesaler went as far as to suggest that DDR motherboards are now regarded with pessimism, and Pentium 4 motherboards, in contrast, are gaining an increasingly favorable reception. The source pointed out that it ordered around 200 to 250 DDR motherboards in February but has only sold 10 to 20 of them since then. Motherboard distributors also pointed out that DDR motherboards seem to be much more difficult to sell than Pentium 4 motherboards. Some industry insiders contend that although DDR motherboards are currently in an unfavorable situation, they still have a chance for a comeback. After all, moves by AMD or chipset providers may still influence market development. In the IT industry, no one remains the winner for long.

To: Bilow who wrote (73549)	5/24/2001 1:59:40 AM
From: richard surckla	Respond to of 93625

Dell Launches New, Easy-To-Use Workstation Design... BW0207 MAY 21,2001 6:01 PACIFIC 09:01 EASTERN ( BW)(TX-DELL)(DELL) Dell Launches New, Easy-To-Use Workstation Design; Workstation Market Leader Introduces Clamshell Chassis and New Processors for Extreme Performance Business Editors & High-Tech Writers AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 21, 2001--Dell (Nasdaq:DELL) today announced worldwide availability of the Dell(tm) Precision(tm) Workstation 530 for power-hungry professionals such as computer-aided engineers and designers, software developers, digital content creators and financial analysts. The Dell Precision Workstation 530 offers maximum performance with up to two new Intel Xeon processors at 1.7 GHz. The system employs an innovative clamshell chassis designed for easy expansion and accessibility. Because of its expandability, the Dell Precision Workstation 530 will replace both the current mid-range and high-end Dell Precision Workstation models, making it easier for customers to choose the system that best suits their needs. "In one visually compelling, easy-to-use chassis, Dell makes it simple for customers to configure and purchase mid-range to high-end workstations," said Jeff Clarke, vice president, Dell Precision Workstations. "Dell's customer focus is why more of them choose to buy their workstations from Dell than any other vendor." New System Design Dell developed its latest workstation with performance, style, expansion and ease-of-access in mind. Features include: Clamshell chassis -- Opening the chassis is a "no tools required" operation that uses a latch, similar to lifting the lid on a laptop, making it quicker and easier to access internal components. Performance and scalability -- The system offers customers a wide range of key component options: -- Supports two Intel Xeon processors -- Provides up to 4 GB of RDRAM(e) -- Holds up to 292 GB of internal SCSI storage -- Supports optional high performance RAID -- Supplies three 32-bit and two 64-bit PCI slots for exceptional system throughput -- Houses three 5.25-inch external bays for removable devices such as CD/RW and DVD drives Extensive graphics options -- AGP Pro110 4X supports a broad range of 2-D, 3-D and multi-monitor graphics cards such as 3D Labs Wildcat II 5110, ATI Fire GL2, NVIDIA Quadro2 Pro, NVIDIA GeForce 2 GTS, and the Matrox Millennium G450. Visual ID -- The distinctive Dell Precision Workstation shield, contoured casing, and midnight gray color reflect Dell's emphasis on taking industrial design beyond the "putty-colored box." Front-mounted ports and diagnostic LEDs -- Customers can plug two USB devices and one IEEE 1394 device into the front of the system instead of reaching around to the back. An LED display on the front makes for easy viewing to help improve diagnostic accuracy, speed repair and reduce downtime. Easy to follow color coding -- Dell helps customers accelerate system setup and maintenance with color-coded connectors, cables and internal components. Easy to add/remove components -- Customers can simply and quickly swap internal components such as hard disk drives, memory and graphics cards without tools. For a Web-based tour, or to download a photo, visit www.dell.com/precision. New Processors Customers can order the Dell Precision Workstation 530 with up to two Intel Xeon processors at 1.4, 1.5 or 1.7 GHz. The Intel Xeon processor provides outstanding workstation performance for customers running multiple, complex and compute-intensive applications such as 3-D visualization, scientific calculations, financial analysis and image processing. Pricing Dell Precision Workstation 530 pricing begins at $1,799(a). An example configuration includes the Intel Xeon processor at 1.7 GHz, 256 MB RDRAM(tm), NVIDIA(R) Quadro2 Pro(R) graphics card, 20 GB(b) IDE hard disk drive, 48X-maximum CD ROM drive, three-years onsite next-business-day(c) service, Microsoft(R) Windows(R) 2000 -- and a 17-inch flat panel monitor -- for $3,813(a). Dell Precision Workstations Dell Precision Workstations are intended for professional users who demand exceptional performance in the digital content creation (DCC), computer-aided design (CAD), geographic information systems (GIS), computer animation, software development and financial analysis markets. For more information about Dell Precision Workstations visit www.dell.com/precision. Dell holds the No. 1 market share position for unit shipments in the worldwide total branded workstation market, according to estimates by IDC(d). Dell Services Dell Precision Workstations are supported by Dell Services, which can help lower customers' cost of computing with a full suite of award-winning computing services including pre-sales consulting, deployment and after-sale support. Dell's direct model affords customers a single point of contact and customized access to electronic, remote and onsite support. Complete information is available at www.dell.com/services. About Dell Dell Computer Corporation (Nasdaq:DELL) is the world's leading direct computer systems company, based on revenues of $32 billion for the past four quarters, and is a premier provider of products and services required for customers to build their Internet infrastructures. The company ranks No. 48 on the Fortune 500, No. 154 on the Fortune Global 500 and No. 10 on the Fortune "most admired" lists of companies. Dell designs, manufactures and customizes products and services to customer requirements, and offers an extensive selection of software and peripherals. Information on Dell and its products can be obtained on the World Wide Web at www.dell.com. (a) All pricing, specifications and availability may change without notice. Taxes and shipping charges extra, and vary. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. U.S. only. The $1,799 configuration includes a Dell Precision Workstation 530 with an Intel Xeon processor at 1.4 GHz, 128 MB RDRAM, Matrox Millenium G450 graphics card, 20 GB IDE hard disk drive, 48X-maximum CD ROM drive, three-years onsite next-business-day service, Microsoft(R) Windows(R)2000. Monitor not included. (b) For hard drives, GB means 1 billion bytes; accessible capacity varies with operating environment. (c) Service may be provided by a third party. Technician will be dispatched if necessary following phone-based troubleshooting. To receive next business day service, Dell must notify the service provider before 5 p.m. (depending on the service contract) customer time. Availability varies. (d) IDC, The Workstation Market, 2000, Q4 Quarterly Update. (e) The amount of memory available under Microsoft(R) Windows NT(R) and Windows 2000 in the Precision 530 will be slightly less than 4 GB depending on the actual system configuration. Dell and Dell Precision are trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation. Intel is a registered trademark and Xeon is a trademark of Intel Corporation. Microsoft and Windows 2000 are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. RDRAM is a trademark of Rambus Inc. Fortune 500 is a registered trademark of The Time Inc. Magazine Company. Dell disclaims any proprietary interest in the marks and names of others. --30--sg/sa* bd/sa CONTACT: Dell Computer Corporation, Austin Media Contacts: David Graves, 512/723-5858 david_graves@dell.com or Carmen Maverick, 512/723-1126 carmen_maverick@dell.com or Investor Contacts: Lynn Tyson, 512/723-1130 lynn_tyson@dell.com or Robert Williams, 512/728-7570 robert_williams@dell.com KEYWORD: TEXAS INDUSTRY KEYWORD: COMPUTERS/ELECTRONICS CONSUMER/HOUSEHOLD HARDWARE INTERNET SOFTWARE PRODUCT

To: Bilow who wrote (73549)	5/24/2001 9:39:03 AM
From: richard surckla	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 93625

MRIMM stands for Media Rambus Inline memory module ... The Reg: Via Worried About P6+RDRAM From YAHOO by: kerry_lass 05/24/01 08:34 am EDT Msg: 287034 of 287075 Via concerned about Intel i830 Can La Intella make something good? By Fuad Abazovic, 24 May 2001 08.54 BST ACCORDING TO OUR FRIENDS, the S3/Via combine is very worried about Intel's next P6 chipset also known as the i830.Some of you may know this as Almador which will find its place in the sun in notebook and smaller computers. This chipset will support mobile Pentium III and mobile Celeron processors and it is worrying Via, our friends say, because it apparently greatly increases integrated performance. One logical question which demands an immediate answer would be how they can do such a thing is that they will have one new fancy thing inside called a MRIMM. MRIMM stands for Media Rambus Inline memory module and allows users to install a small RAMBUS module for the i830 to use as local frame buffer/z cache. The chipset should feature very impressive 2D performance but, we are not sure about 3D performance. The interesting fact about it is that Intel can meet their target of selling RAMBUS chipsets, when the i830 supports PC133 for main memory. It is rumoured that Almador can be easily canned for the desktop as well and we should see it launched alongside the Tualatin. The graphic core used in i830, with the MRIMM module, will find a place as well in the Brookdale-G chipset. µ

To: Bilow who wrote (73549)	5/24/2001 5:31:32 PM
From: Jdaasoc	Read Replies (2) \| Respond to of 93625

carl: Tell me about the memory in the Xbox carl, tell me about the memory in the Xbox carl. I really love it when you tell me about the memory in the XBox carl. ( I just like John Steinbeck novels) john theregister.co.uk Microsoft Xbox has lost the console war already - Sony exec By Tony Smith Posted: 24/05/2001 at 12:43 GMT Microsoft's Xbox console is "finished before it even got started". So says Sony's PlayStation supremo, Ken Kutaragi, in an interview with the Financial Times today. Not that he's biased in any way, you understand. Our Ken's simply telling it like it is. Yeah, right. We've always said that the early 21st Century's big battle will be between Microsoft and Sony, and it looks like the combat is just starting to get a little rougher. Kutaragi's claim is based on two factors. First, the Xbox hardware isn't anywhere near as good as everyone thought it would be, and second, that Microsoft just doesn't fully understand the console business and certainly not the Japanese side of it. The problems Microsoft may have winning over Japanese consumers and games developers has been signalled before. Earlier this year, rumours sprang up suggesting Microsoft would delay Xbox's Japanese launch to give it more time to address the needs of that market, which is very different from the US or Europe. Japanese gamers favour different game styles and need to be addressed with different flavours of marketing and advertising. At the time, even Electronic Arts CFO Stan McKee said he doesn't expect Xbox to launch in Japan before 2002. EA had already announced its intention to offer Xbox software. Since then, Bill Gates has gone on record to say that Xbox will ship in Japan at the same time that its ships in the US. And a handful of big-name Japanese developers have signed up to produce Xbox games. Among them is Sega, but since it's so desperate for software revenue it will code for almost anything, it's support is hardly a strong indicator of Xbox's Japanese credibility. As for the Xbox hardware, Kutaragi dismisses it as "disappointing". The console isn't fast enough and its graphics are "rough". The demo machine's crash at the E3 show last week suggests he may have a point. Xbox certainly sounds like a PC engineered down to a console, rather than a piece of consumer electronics kit engineered up. Incidentally, Kutaragi's comments about Xbox's graphics will annoy Nvidia, which designed the chip that powers them and is relying on the console to generate it significant revenues - up to $50 per box, reckons one analyst - going forward. Xbox's PC heritage may prove a problem. The FT quotes Japanese Société Générale analyst Shunji Yamashina as saying Xbox's E3 demo games were "just extensions of PC games". That's almost certainly true, but then so were almost all the major PlayStation sellers, and we suspect Yamashina's quote says as much about the differences between the Japanese market and the Western one. Over here, we like PC games, and that may be enough to carve Xbox a good share of the market. Microsoft might simply choose to focus on the West, where it will be up against less entrenched competitors. However, Japan accounts for between a quarter and a third of the console arena, and Microsoft will need to make a good go of there if it's not to harm its credibility as a console market player. And it may not, in any case, be able to rely on strong support in the US. Kutaragi claims that US retailers have said that 70 per cent of their sales will come from PlayStation, the rest from Nintendo and Microsoft - and "almost all of that will be from Nintendo". Microsoft will, of course, dismiss such claims. Indeed, we're sure retailers will be saying much the same thing to Microsoft, just swapping some of the names around. Microsoft should at least be able to keep them stocked with consoles, unlike Sony's hashed PlayStation 2 launch. It promises to have 600,000-800,000 console warehoused and ready for the launch. Between 15 and 20 games will ship when Xbox does come to market, on 8 November - three days after sneaky old Nintendo ships GameCube. With prices closely matched, sales will depend largely on potential buyers' in-store experiences and how much money the players will chuck at advertising. It's going to be a fun Christmas. We don't side with Mr Kutaragi on this one, but we're not putting any money on Microsoft either. ®