SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 26, 1999 - Intel Corporation today introduced the Pentium® III processor, the first microprocessor designed to power a new internet experience filled with rich audio, video, animations and 3-D that make information come alive. The Pentium III processor is available immediately at 450 and 500 MHz, while the 550 MHz version will be available in second quarter 1999.
Pentium III processor-based systems are available worldwide in thousands of retail locations, and through resellers and direct vendors.
"The Pentium III processor enables the most powerful personal computers for running media rich software both on and off the internet, in the home and in business," said Mike Aymar, vice president and director, Platform Launch Operation. "Users can expect to find fully configured systems at prices below $2,000, along with a wealth of optimized web sites and software applications."
On Feb. 17, Intel and developers from around the world demonstrated more than 200 web sites and applications that will enhance the way people use the internet to learn, shop, communicate, work and play on the internet. In March, Intel will launch the Intel® WebOutfitterSM service which will provide Pentium III processor owners with access to cutting-edge content, tools and tips designed to maximize the internet experience - free of charge. The Intel WebOutfitter service, in cooperation with key content providers, will provide users with a convenient starting point for experiencing the best of the web on their Pentium III processor-based PCs, including new plug-ins, enhancements, themed content and optimized sites for a range of special interests like art and music. More information about the Intel WebOutfitter service will be released in March.
Performance for Today's and Tomorrow's Applications
For users who interact with the internet or data-rich applications, the most important advances are the Pentium III processor's internet Streaming SIMD Extensions - 70 new instructions that dramatically enhance the performance of advanced imaging, 3-D, streaming audio, video, and speech recognition applications. With all the power needed for the next generation of internet-enabled software, Pentium III processors will continue to deliver an exceptional experience for PC users well into the future.
The Pentium III processor at 500 MHz is 93 percent faster than the Pentium II processor at 450 MHz on CPU intensive 3-D calculations, as shown by Ziff-Davis' 3D WinBench* 99 transform and lighting test. Using Futuremark's MultimediaMark* multimedia performance benchmark, the Pentium III processor at 500 MHz is 42 percent faster than the 450 MHz Pentium II processor. For more information on Pentium III processor performance visit www.intel.com/procs/perf.
The Pentium III processor is being delivered on PC platforms based on the industry mainstream Intel® 440BX AGPset which provides the performance and flexibility to scale with Intel's newest processor along with a proven platform for business deployment.
Processor Serial Number
The Pentium III processor also offers a new selectable processor serial number feature that, when enabled, works in conjunction with security solutions to provide for more secure internet transactions. Corporate IT managers will be able to use the processor serial number feature to enhance asset management, making it easier to track PCs and applications on the network, as well as manage information better and control access to sensitive corporate data.
This Way In™: An Integrated Marketing Campaign
On Feb. 28, Intel will "open the blue door" in its ads to show consumers how the Pentium III processor will deliver a more visually rich internet experience. The Pentium III processor campaign, that began with teaser ads, will include a comprehensive advertising program comprised of broadcast commercials, print, outdoor and online advertisements as well as point-of-purchase displays - all directing consumers to the Pentium III processor online showroom. The showroom will feature multimedia demonstrations, a buyers guide and an extensive preview area of software and web sites that will take advantage of the performance of the Pentium III processor.
Product Features and Pricing
The Pentium III processor core, with 9.5 million transistors, is based on Intel's advanced P6 microarchitecture and is manufactured on 0.25 micron process technology. The 450 and 500 MHz speeds, with 512 KB L2 cache, are available now. Pricing in 1,000 unit quantities is $696 and $496 for the 500 and 450 MHz parts respectively. Pricing on the Pentium III processor at 550 MHz will be available at launch in second quarter 1999.
Intel is also shipping Pentium III processors and motherboards through Intel Authorized Solution Providers and Intel Product Dealers to enable them to build and ship Pentium III processor-based systems immediately.
* Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.