Xilinx creates 'reconfigurable chips' allowing online upgrades of hardware

Article Abstract:

San Jose-based Xilinx Inc. has begun to ship chips that can rewire network circuits that are already at the customer's site. The technology has been waiting in the background since the 1960s until practicable. IBM uses them to reconfigure asynchronous transfer mode switches so that they can handle different tasks, as one example. Another example might be a satellite that is already in orbit and needs its circuitry reconfigured. System designers update circuits using applets, programs based on Sun's Java programming language. These programmable chips cost about $50 as compared with as little as $7 for custom chips.

Semiconductors and related devices, Product introduction, Integrated Circuits, Computer industry, Integrated circuit fabrication, Abstract, Xilinx Inc., XLNX

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3Dfx guns for cheap graphic thrills

Article Abstract:

3Dfx Interactive Inc. developed microchips that bring three-demensional graphics effects from specialized $10,000 computers to $300 boards that supercharge ordinary personal computers. 3Dfx has 5% of the $1.5 billion desktop graphics market. The company's Voodoo line of graphics chips is used mainly in boards purchased by hardcore PC game players. 3Dfx will try to move into the casual player market with its less expensive Voodoo Banshee line. This will put them into competion with stronger companies. 3Dfx continues development with dozens of engineers on multiple design teams to leapfrog their own products.

Comment:

3Dfx has 5% of the $1.5 billion desktop graphics market

Semiconductor Devices, Product information, Company Planning/Goals, Article, 3Dfx Interactive Inc.

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