Itanium, Intel’s first 64-bit microprocessor has failed, while Opteron, AMD’s first 64-bit microprocessor released in mid-2003 has received strong performance reviews. Many companies such as Dell and IBM, which have been staunch supporters of Intel, have announced plans to use Opteron. As Intel prepares itself for the launch of Itanium 2, Opteron looks well placed to face the challenge.
"With the launch of our Opteron and Athlon 64 processors, we have the ability to revolutionize computing from high-end servers to high-performance desktop systems, to small form factor devices. We have the potential to change the very landscape of computing based on an architecture that represents the essence of customer-centric innovation."
In early 2003, Hector Ruiz (Ruiz), CEO of Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), was reflecting on how his company was faring in its battle with Intel in the 64-bit microprocessor market. Itanium, Intel's first 64-bit microprocessor had failed. Opteron, AMD's 64-bit microprocessor released in mid-2003 received strong performance reviews. Many companies such as Dell and IBM, which had been staunch supporters of Intel had announced plans to use Opteron. As Intel prepared itself for the launch of Itanium 2, Opteron looked well placed to face the challenge. But AMD also knew that a powerful player like Intel could never be underestimated.
Founded in 1969 and based in Sunnyvale, California, AMD had emerged as a global supplier of integrated circuits for the personal and networked computer and communications markets. AMD produced microprocessors, flash memory devices, and silicon-based solutions for communications and networking applications. |
