Both users and channel are considering alternatives to Intel CPUs due to Intel`s worldwide processor shortage and AMD looks to benefit from its competition`s bad run.
Intel country manager Steven Nossal admits there is a worldwide Intel processor shortage, but says the problems will be resolved within the next two weeks. The reason for the shortage, he adds, is that the Coppermine processor demand exceeded all expectations.
Gary Smith, MD of One Technology Group (OTG), says his company has had a serious problem with Intel chip supplies lately. "There is excess demand worldwide and that has affected our business. We can`t just stop our commerce because there is no supply," he adds. "Hence AMD is an option."
Hans Hamman, FD of Compucomp, agrees that AMD is a viable alternative to Intel processors. "We are looking at AMD processors for the first time in many years. For the first time, other reputable brands, such as HP and Compaq, are using their chips."
The AMD Athlon 850MHz will be landing in about two weeks, according to AMD representative Alex Mann, who says that it makes sense for resellers and clients to look at the AMD range now. "We now have an entry-level to high-end product range, and you don`t have to worry about delivery," he says.
Meanwhile, one anonymous distributor claims that the Intel BX motherboards had "serious faults":
However, Nossal denies there is a problem with the BX chipset. "If there were problems we would have picked them up two years ago," he says. He feels that if there is an issue with the board, it is probably very specific. Nossal adds that the 810 and 820 have also shown no errors.
Compucomp`s Hamman also believes there are no quality issues with the BX motherboards.
All resellers polled will be tendering for the RT 222 with Intel processors - worth about R1 billion in total, but some will not be using the Intel motherboard. The RT 222 will supply government with desktop, notebook and server equipment for the next two years.
OTG has withdrawn the Intel motherboards from the lucrative RT 222 tender, but Smith could not comment on whether this was due to technical issues with the motherboards or for other reasons.
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