Next March, Sony and Toshiba will start their trial runs of an advanced semiconductor manufacturing process that will eventually lead to the Cell microprocessor that is at the heart of the upcoming PS3s. Full production is on schedule for 2005, which looks to push the PS3\'s launch into 2006, as analysts are predicting.
According to gamesindustry.biz, Sony and Toshiba are currently working on a new 65nm technology for the Cell chip. To give some perspective on this, most companies in the industry are still coming to terms with the shift from 130nm technology to 90nm technology and the 65nm chip is a leap beyond that.
The drop in the nm(nanometer) measurement of the chip is important because the smaller the components that are used on the chip, the faster and less power-hungry they become. All of this leads to a more powerful Cell chip, which of course means even better looking games in your living room.
Toshiba is looking to have some sample chips for evaluation in March 2004 and is scheduled to ramp up to full production in the summer of 2005. This should be just in time to supply chips for a fresh batch of PS3s to launch in the end of 2005. Of course, Sony could easily push back their PS3 launch if any complications arise. To help make sure that everything happens on time, Sony is building its own fabrication plant to the tune of $6 billion.
Here at ign.com, we wish Sony the best in their technological endeavors and hope they hurry up and get us our PS3s. Check back later for more information on the upcoming system.
Article:
http://ps2.ign.com/articles/445/445819p1.html
