Intel unveils processors for workstations

TOKYO: Intel Corp., the world's largest chipmaker, said on Monday it had

begun shipments of a new series of microprocessors for high-performance and

mid-range workstations.

The new Xeon series chips, available at speeds up to 1.7 gigahertz, will

utilize the firm's NetBurst microarchitecture that will boost performance for

such functions as video, audio, advanced Internet technology and

three-dimensional graphics, the firm said.

Workstation makers such as NEC Corp, Fujitsu Ltd. and IBM will begin shipping

platforms using the new Xeon chips before the end of the second quarter. Intel

also unveiled a series of power-saving chips for ultra-light portable PCs,

including a 750 MHz mobile Pentium III processor that, operating in the

battery-saving mode at 500 MHz consumes less than one watt of power.

Intel is facing increased competition from rivals, including processor design

firm Transmeta Corp, in power-saving chips for the fast-growing market for

ultra-light notebook computers. Low power consumption extends the battery life

of portable PCs.

(C) Reuters Limited 2001.