Intel Corp. Wednesday unveiled a faster networking chip and announced the creation of a $200 million equity fund.
Joining the processor is a new line of silicon products on the new Intel
Internet Exchange Architecture, which uses a standards-based design to
allow systems designers to make networks run swiftly and cost effectively.
Architecture is Intel’s new system for creating networking and
telecommunications equipment based on reprogrammable silicon and open
interfaces. The company’s goal is to help the networking and communications
industry build quicker, intelligent networks.
“The explosive growth of the Internet and e-business requires faster
deployment of high-bandwidth equipment and greater flexibility to support
emerging Internet technologies and new services within the network, said
Mark Christensen, vice president and general manager of Intel’s Network
Communications Group. “IX Architecture will help customers deliver faster
and smarter networks on Internet time.”
Original equipment manufacturers may use IX Architecture to design systems
minus the costs, risks and time penalties normally associated with ASIC
(application specific, integrated circuit) design efforts.
One of IX Architecture’s many features includes a developer’s tool kit to
help facilitate product design and allow equipment suppliers to provide
post-sale enhancements to their clients. Wire-speed voice, video and data
services may be added to existing equipment by reprogramming the network
processor.
The Communications Fund will be used to invest in companies developing
Architecture-based systems and software.
Rounding out a busy day for Intel was its acquisition of Netboost, a company
that develops and markets hardware and software solutions for
communications equipment suppliers and independent software vendors.
Netboost will give Intel (INTC) a variety of tools and silicon components to
support IX Architecture.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
