X-bit labs

Past, Present and Future of Chipsets

by Anton Shilov

[ 08/12/2005 | 10:49 AM ]

When end-users acquire personal computers they typically want to know, which processor is inside and what type of graphics card is used. Very few are interested in what chipset is utilized, even though currently core-logic set becomes an extremely important component of a computer.

Modern core-logic sets loads of capabilities that were possible only with standalone controllers a few years ago, for instance, network or storage controllers. Furthermore, contemporary chipsets also feature capabilities that simplify work of system administrators, for instance, NVIDIA ActiveArmor technology provides basic firewall features, whereas Intel Active Management Technology provides ability to manage and repair remote computers. Needless to say that in future chipsets will become even important components of personal computers, which is what ExtremeTech web-site tells in its recently published article.

“While chipsets are not as transistor heavy as other products, the subtlety and intelligence needed in designing a great chipset should not be underestimated. It took Nvidia two tries to get a solid chipset out the door, and ATI still has struggles with the technology surrounding a complex southbridge. We also look at companies like VIA who have had great successes and great failures alike,” the article claims.

Nowadays Intel promotes its platform strategy and supplies chipsets in bundles with processors, which emphasizes importance of this business for the semiconductor giants.

“On the Intel side we will continue to see faster and faster memory controllers, and an official support of DDR-2 800 and possibly beyond. In 2007, Intel is scheduled to release processors that will have its own integrated memory controllers, as well as a HyperTransport-like link that will be 100% Intel. When that happens, we will see another major shift in the Intel market, as chipset makers will no longer have to worry about designing a fast and efficient memory controller,” the article, which also describes plans of chipset makers like ATI, NVIDIA, SiS, ULi and VIA, states.

• ExtremeTech: Chipsets Today and Tomorrow.