Forbes: Faster, cooler G5s ready


Forbes reports that IBM is ready to deliver a new version of G5 -- known at Big Blue as the PowerPC 970fx -- by the end of this year, which should allow for speed-bumped PowerMacs at Macworld San Francisco (MWSF) or shortly thereafter. The "new" chip will be manufactured using a 90 or 130nm process, and see a reduction in the number of features on-chip.

This shrinking of the chip die will allow reduced power consumption and cooler operation. Secondly, assuming transition to the new process is smooth and yields can be pushed up, the move should also reduce cost. And, reportedly, PowerPC production will shift to a 65-nanometer process in 2005 and 45-nanometers in 2007.

Additionally, the article includes two interesting quotes from Peter Glaskowsky, Instat/MDR:

"Speeds of 2.4 to 2.6 GHz would be consistent with exactly where I would expect them to be right now;" and
"There are no technical hurdles to producing a Powerbook G5. It could easily appear in January."

Glaskowsky's first utterance comes as no surprise as 2.4 to 2.6GHz is in line with previous predictions. However, his second statement must viewed as a new development related directly to the "FX" version of the 970.

This is very encouraging indeed as G5 PowerBooks will stomp the competition flat.

What's your take?