IP: HP pulls plug on its microprocessors [high time djf]

[David Farber <farber () cis upenn edu>]

HP pulls plug on its microprocessors


By Emma Connors 


Hewlett Packard yesterday confirmed its decision to get out of the
microprocessor business in a strategy briefing session which coincided with
the release of third quarter figures that US analysts described as
disappointing.


...


Hewlett Packard's computer systems local marketing and channels manager, Mr
John Fogarasi, said the decision to centre the company's system
architecture strategy on Intel's IA-64 bit microprocessors indicated HP was
addressing such concerns.


....


"But as far as microprocessors are concerned, the numbers simply no longer
add up. When we first got into the RISC processor marketplace back in 1986,
there was nothing else around," he said.


Intel expects to deliver the first of its IA-64 processors in about two
years' time. IBM and Compaq have also indicated they will be building the
new processors into their products, but Hewlett Packard plans to be one of
the first hardware manufacturers to ship computers powered by the new
processors.


...




Eventually all Hewlett Packard computers, ranging from palm-top units to
massive mainframe-sized servers, will be powered by the 64 bit processors.
HP plans to wind down production of its own PA RISC chips but, wary of
being accused of dictating customer migration deadlines, it says the final
cut-out will depend on customer demand. 


from http://www.afr.com.au/content/970820/inform/inform7.html