Advanced Micro Devices once again took the lead in the processor-speed race with its release last week of the 850MHz Athlon.
The new chip gives AMD, based in California, a slight performance edge over Intel, whose current line of Pentium III chips tops out at 800MHz.
Several computer manufacturers immediately announced that they will feature the 850MHz Athlon in new systems, including Compaq Computer, IBM, Gateway, Pionex and CyberMax.
"The microprocessor industry is engaged in a heated battle right now, and computer users will continue to witness breakneck clock speeds as a result," said Mike Feibus, principal analyst at Mercury Research. "It is exciting to see."
The 850MHz Athlon processor is priced at US$849 in 1,000-unit quantities.
