Intel's 64-bit Processor Line To Be Featured At IDF

Intel Corp. is expected to provide a sneak preview of its x86-based, 64-bit processor line during the Intel Developers Forum (IDF) Feb. 17-19.

"They will demonstrate it at IDF," said Nathan Brookwood of market watcher Insight64 in Saratoga, Calif.

The new processor is a major change in strategy for Intel. Seeking to fend off a sudden charge from rival Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD), Intel has been working on its code-named "CT" technology for 32/64-bit processor designs. Formerly called "Yamhill", "CT" enables a 32-bit chip to support 64-bit programs.

Most observers believe an Intel processor based on "CT" is not due out until 2005.

Brookwood said Intel's x86-based, 64-bit chip is codenamed "Tejas." That desktop microprocessor is expected to be the follow-on to the newly-announced Prescott processor, which is basically a 90-nm version of the Pentium 4. The Pentium 4 processor line is based on 130-nm process technology.Intel's Prescott can also support 64-bit extensions, but it is unlikely the company will offer that chip in a 64-bit version, Brookwood. The Prescott, with 64-bit extensions, is not compatible with AMD's 64-bit devices, he said.

When Intel rolls out its new processor, the real challenge is how the company will market the Itanium line of 64-bit processors. Intel's Itanium is a 64-bit chip, but the product runs x86-based, 32-bit applications in emulation mode.