[Pc_Support] Re: AMD Fusion going to keep them in the game ... and why Microsoft loves them ...

[Bryan J. Smith]

On 10/26/06, Bryan J. Smith <thebs413 at gmail.com> wrote:
> Unlike Intel, which relies on the "single point of contention" Memory
> Controller Hub (MCH) aka "northbridge" (NB), and puts the graphics
> there using a combination of memory hacks and special processor modes,
> AMD is putting the ATI GPU right on-die, right on the crossbar
> interconnect.  This will bring down price while giving it priority
> memory access just like an Opteron -- all at a Sempron price-point,
> and a performance-point that makes Intel whimper.
> From the article "AMD-ATI 'Fusion' Full Speed Ahead":
> http://www.internetnews.com/ent-news/article.php/3640251

As mentioned in the article, Microsoft is all for it.  Why?

Vista's Windows Graphics Foundation (WGF) 1.1, based on DirectX 9,
requires a DX9-native NV3x/R3xx (GF-FX/R9500) class GPU, with a
NV4x/R4xx (GF6/X-series) highly recommended.  Intel doesn't have that.
 Although the i965 is a DX9 capable GPU, it's performance is not
enough to run WGF 1.1 and the Aero Window Manager.

That's why Microsoft is releasing Windows Vista Home Basic edition,
which doesn't use DX9, and only a 3D stripped version of WGF1.1
without Aero.  It's designed for Intel GPU integrated chipsets, and
other low-cost solutions, instead of NV44 (GeForce 61x0) solutions.
It's also why Dell went AMD for its new class of low-end PCs, because
Microsoft wants OEMs selling Vista Aero-capable systems now
(especially with Dell going to #2 Intel status as Apple has taken over
Intel's #1 spot).

With a low-cost AMD processor with an integrated R4xx series GPU right
on-die, with AMD's extensive embedded microprocessor experience (e.g.,
Geode NX), AMD can bring a PCs cost down to well under $200 with
Windows -- all while being Vista Aero-capable.  You betcha Microsoft
is big-time AMD lovin' right now!