Intel’s introduction of the 64-bit extension technology was certainly not a rash decision, but a well-prepared move with aim for successful market penetration. One of the yet not discussed topics is Intel’s chipsets for its upcoming IA32e processors.

All 64-bit processors can address more than 4GB of memory – the limit for 32-bit chips – and execute certain functions not available on x86 CPUs; for instance, Hyper-Threading requires support from MCH to function properly. Addressing large amounts of memory is certainly not a problem for high-end server and workstation Xeon-supporting chipsets, as those processors historically supported more than 4GB of RAM and there is not need to worry about this capability now. The question is whether i925X “Alderwood” chipset also supports enhanced memory addressing as well other IA32e features. 

Intel said that it positions its Pentium 4 E processors with 64-bit extension technology for uni-processor servers targeted for mid-2004 launch. Intel does not indicated availability of performance mainstream and mainstream desktop Intel Pentium 4 E processors with enhanced functionality this year. Keeping in mind that all Pentium 4 E processors have the same core with the same functionality inside, 64-bit support is probably a question of marketing and positioning, certainly not something that lies in technology.

As stated by people familiar with Intel’s roadmap, the company’s high-end Pentium 4 E processors targeted for mid-year launch utilize LGA775 packaging and function at 3.60GHz speeds. For UP workstations – the machines where 64-bit extension technology will be available according to Intel – the Santa Clara, California-based firm positions i925X chipset and LGA775 Intel Pentium 4 processors. This fundamentally means that i925X has a new memory controller and certain other tweaks to take advantage of the IA32e.

In fact, Intel’s high-end chipsets for expensive desktops and workstations, such as i850E and i875P, usually contain some undeclared features. For instance, i850E supported the Hyper-Threading technology earlier than others, whereas, i875P is in fact a chipset capable of working with 2 CPUs. Evidently, their mainstream counterparts, such as i865PE, does not boast with the same kinds of functionality.

It is not clear whether the company’s i915 series “Grantsdale” products is also capable of taking advantage of the IA32e features like the more expensive i925X chipset.

Intel did not comment on the story.