X-bit labs

AMD to Go Intel Route: Set to Introduce Platform Program.

Category: Other

by Anton Shilov

[ 07/27/2005 | 11:21 PM ]

After denouncing Intel Corp. for its Intel Centrino platform and accusing the larger competitor of monopolizing the market, AMD will reportedly introduce its own program under which standardized hardware configurations will be offered, Asian media reports.

AMD’s Commercial Stable Image Platform (CSIP) is aimed at “standardizing hardware configurations for the enterprise-use PC segment and avoiding unnecessary costs,” according to a short news-story by DigiTimes web-site. The hardware configurations will include an AMD microprocessor, a supporting core-logic and a wireless network controller if required.

The CSIP is claimed to be introduced already in September. It is unknown, whether AMD plans to introduce a brand-name for the initiative, which may ease choice for consumers and attract attention of business users to AMD-based computers.

Currently it is reported that CSIP will promote AMD processors in 939-pin form-factor and chipsets from NVIDIA, SiS or VIA Technologies. The report notes that in particular SiS761GX and SiSM761GX from Silicon Integrated Systems or “equivalent” chipsets from other chipset designers will be used. The mentioned core-logic sets sport PCI Express connectivity as well as built-in graphics core. For AMD Turion 64-based notebooks a configuration of a processor, a chipset and a Wireless LAN controller will be offered.

At this point it is unclear, how AMD’s Commercial Stable Image Platform (CSIP) will be organized. Unlike Intel, AMD does not produce all components of the platform. This means that AMD may have to buy components from other companies and then resell the bundles containing its processors, which is something unlikely for the company, who has been withdrawing from distribution for some time. Another option may be recommending customers to use certain components from the third parties, while ensuring that the partners have enough chips in stock.

AMD usually does not comment on unannounced products and initiatives.