As both Intel and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) expect to add new platforms for their processors, Taiwanese motherboard makers expect to face a greater challenge in providing relevant products, sources said.
According to sources, Intel recently informed Taiwanese motherboard makers that it expects to introduce two platforms, Socket 478 and Socket 775, for its next-generation Prescott processors using the 90-nanometer (nm) process next year. Volume production of the processors featuring Socket 478 and 775 will start respectively in the first quarter and second quarter of 2004.
In addition, AMD's upcoming Athlon 64 processors will also have two or three socket versions, the Socket 940/939 and Socket 754. The new platforms are expected to give motherboard makers greater difficulties in inventory management and marketing strategy from next quarter to the first quarter of 2004, local motherboard makers projected.
News source: DigiTimes
