|  The 3GHz P4 represents not just a record-setting mark in processor speed, it also introduces a new processor technology called Hyper-Threading to consumer- and business-level desktop computing. In a nutshell, Hyper-Threading allows a processor to take advantage of idle CPU resources by working on more than one task simultaneously, resulting in a boost to CPU performance. Previously, Hyper-Threading technology was available only in Intel's Xeon processors for high-end servers and workstations. | The 3GHz Pentium 4 will require a 70-watt power supply, making it incompatible with current 60-watt motherboards. This will mean changing a power-control circuit called a pulse width modulation controller, according to the report. On top of that, to make room for more components, board makers will have to rearrange the boards' circuit layouts. Intel is expected to release a Pentium 4 running at 2.8GHz on Monday and recently shifted up the schedule for the 3GHz part in order to make it available for the Christmas shopping season.The current fastest Pentium 4 runs at 2.53GHz and costs US$637 in quantities of 1,000. Intel is currently using a manufacturing process that creates chip features 0.13 microns in size, but is planning to shift to a 0.09-micron process next year. |
| The 2.8GHz parts will also begin the shift to using silicon wafers that are 300 millimeters in diameter, a larger size that allows Intel to cut manufacturing costs. |
