On Monday, Intel will release a server chip, code-named Woodcrest, that"s part of a trio of processors debuting this summer that have emerged as one of the most important product launches in Intel"s 28-year history. Like past Intel product releases, the new chips will lay the groundwork for a new generation of computers and generate sales for software developers and hardware makers. Hewlett-Packard, for instance, will come out with a wide range of servers based around Woodcrest, including one box that the company says will be the fastest two-processor server in its class. But more importantly, the chips will show whether Intel can regain its technological edge.
"(On) average, we are 40 percent-plus better than the competition in performance and a little bit better in power, and the combination is 1.5X in terms of power/performance," said Pat Gelsinger, general manager of the Intel enterprise group. "Customers are very enthusiastic about this platform. We expect to see a rapid take up."