Intel 3.40GHz Pentium 4 XE and other CPU roadmap changes

International Gate Insulator Workshop being held in Japan brings very interesting news on the future of Pentium 4 processors. We´ve already written about Intel´s primary presentation theme – the new high-k dielectrics for 45nm chips (see Intel: high-k dielectrics enable to reduce leakage currents by a factor of 100!) However, the Japanese audience got to know about the closest Intel´s Pentium 4 roadmap (including Prescott) as well.

The latest information is that the company plans to announce the 3.40GHPentium 4 XE on 0.13µm Northwood before any Prescott-based solutions. It seems Prescott stepping C1 suitable for volume production will be sampling only by December, volume shipments scheduled to Q1 2004 (closer to February). So today they speak of 3.40GHz Northwood-based Pentium 4 as some intermediate variant to "hold on" until Prescott arrives. By the way, they also say that considering the expected announcement of Grantsdale chipsets in February, we might see Prescott chips in LGA775 packages at once.

Anyway, let´s get back to the novelties. There´s sense in releasing such chips before 90nm solutions arrive, as AMD might release something like Athlon 64 FX53 and become the performance leader as well. If Pentium 4 XE is widespread, or not, it´s not clear. Let´s wait for more information...

Source: PC Watch

Write a comment below. No registration needed!