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From: jdr@sloth.mlb.semi.harris.com (Jim Ray)
Newsgroups: comp.arch
Subject: Re: Snakebytes (HP process technology)
Message-ID: <1991Apr3.062454.14487@mlb.semi.harris.com>
Date: 3 Apr 91 06:24:54 GMT
References: <1996@kuling.UUCP> <32580012@hpcuhe.cup.hp.com> <40812@cup.portal.com>
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In article <40812@cup.portal.com> mslater@cup.portal.com (Michael Z Slater) writes:
>Linley Gwennap from HP writes:
>
>>While HP's IC
>>processes are as good as anyone's, the Series 700 CPU is implemented
>>in a 1.0 micron, 3-metal-layer CMOS process which is pretty standard
>>throughout the industry.
>
>I think this understates the value of HP's process.  IBM may have 3-layer
>metal, but I am not aware of any commercially available microprocessor 
>fabricated in a 3-layer metal process.  I'm not a process expert by a long
>shot, but from what I understand, there is a speed advantage here.
>
>Also, from casual discussions with others who have had chips fabbed at various
>foundries, including HP, HP's process has a reputation for being one of the
>fastest around.
>
>Michael Slater, MIcroprocessor Report   mslater@cup.portal.com

I could have swarn that at least one of the chips ( one of the 3 used
in the "snakes") , is foundered by Hitachi.  Anyone else hear anything
of this?

-- 
Jim Ray                                Harris Semiconductor
Internet:  jdr@semi.harris.com         PO Box 883   MS 62B-022
Phone:     (407) 729-5059              Melbourne, FL  32901