Intel have finally moved their memory controller from the graphics memory and controller hub (GMCH) a.k.a. Northbridge chipset onto the processor allowing faster access to memory resources by the processor and combining both the processing and memory control functions. Bloomberg reports:
Intel Corp., the world's biggest semiconductor maker, today showed off a new chip that has direct access to memory in computers, invading one of the last market niches dominated by Advanced Micro Devices Inc.
Intel for the first time is combining the memory and processing functions into a single chip, instead of using two. The result is a processor that helps pull up data and perform calculations faster. Other features boost the ability to handle video and sound files, and share work among computers.
While AMD has had a memory-controlling chip on the market since 2003, new processors using the design were delayed and didn't catch on with customers, analyst David Wu said. Santa Clara, California-based Intel will have a performance lead until 2010, he said.
As the article notes, this used to be AMD's domain. Intel have now caught up. It definitely seems Intel is on the attack on all fronts. In Nvidia vs. Intel we highlighted how Intel was aligning their sights on Nvidia by challenging Nvidia's core graphics technology strength. One wonders how far Intel can stretch themselves? It is difficult to see any company overtaking Intel now. They will be the dominant player for years to come. I don't think this is good myself and as I have said in the past, I hope to see a strong, competitive AMD rebound and continue to push Intel. This is good for the consumers.
The situation is very similar to Microsoft. They have hardly any challenegers and are therefore able to release flawed operating systems such as Vista. It is doubtful they would even consider sending out Vista with flaws if there was a viable competitor on the horizon. Market dominance does not neccessarily mean better products. It only means less alternatives and that the company with all the money, even with inferior products, can crush any competitor with better offerings. Do I sound lie a cheerleader for the open source crowd? Don't mean to!
Bloomberg: Intel Invades AMD Niche With Memory-Controlling Chip
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