Advanced Micro Devices Inc (AMD)

[bobs10]

Yes, it looks like INTC's plan to separate the 64 bit world into low-value (Nocona) and high-value (Itanium) servers isn't working very well at all. It looks more and more like AMD is taking a huge hunk out of the middle and INTC is left with little more than scraps. Further, so far INTC seems to have ignored the 64-bit consumer market. The A64 market seems poised for some rather explosive near-term growth.

Personally, I think high-end processors, like the Itanium, are doomed. Just a few more years and lots of cheap processors connected with something like HT and fast switches will completely dominate. Dual/multiple core will also change the field, as single processors become low-end. Small multi-way machines will have too many advantages to be ignored. The sprawling single/dual Xeon processor server farms are also nearing an end. The problem is going to be changing the way programs operate so that they can work effectively in the new paradigm.

The prime directive of top management is to set the direction of the company. In that respect INTC's management couldn't have done a worse job. They completely missed the boat with 64bit and have needlessly placed INTC in a position of weakness not seen since INTC switched from producing memory to processors. HPQ’s management by hooking onto the Itanium star, with all its disadvantages, has left themselves vulnerable to SUN’s and IBM’s large processors, not to mention Opterons which continue to get more powerful. It looks like Carlies going to be replacing lots more management as the Alphas etc. fade into the sunset.