Thread: Intel violated its own NES, chipsets H55/H57 a ride

The launch of a new Intel platform is always an event. The arrival of Core i3 and i5 "Clarkdale is important for several reasons. These are the first processors engraved in 32 nanometers and the first to embed an integrated graphics solution. They also represent the introduction of the Westmere microarchitecture / Nehalem to the general public, therefore the biggest trends for Intel in this segment since the launch of Core 2 in 2006.

The giant Santa Clara, probably more than ever, is promoting the launch of these CPUs, January 7th, in time for the opening of CES in Las Vegas. The few days that have elapsed since that date are therefore an opportunity for Intel to make sure everything is ready, and it is no more serious bug in its new platform. The company sought this time more than ever to ensure that processors and motherboards are not found in the database before their launch date. This goes even further, since for the first time Intel has signed an NDA (non-disclosure agreement) to manufacturers of motherboards, so be sure they never let any information on the new chipsets H55 and H57 Express .

Yet, there are now new motherboards featuring the chipset in the computer stores in Taipei, Taiwan. It will be recalled that a few months the launch of the P55 Express & Core i7 i5 'Lynnfield' had been a similar mishap. Intel has tightened the screw even harder on this launch and yet Rebelote, products (motherboards only here) are available two weeks before launch ... What happened?

Firstly, two points are notable, although he denies it, ASUS is here seen as the main culprit (the first to have done, which in turn created a domino effect..). The current situation of Taiwanese manufacturer would it cause? It is clear that ASUS had much to gain, both in terms of sales and in terms of branding ...The second notable point is that Intel motherboards are also available! The Santa Clara giant of violating its own NES, it's unusual to say the least! After being informed that these cards have disappeared from the shelves, but can legitimately wonder what happened.

Part of the answer lies perhaps in the direction of the economic crisis, and going a bit far side of the recent complaint by the FTC. Whether the first of these reasons, or both, Intel has significantly scaled back its marketing budget to its partners. Now it is threatening to reduce or cut the budget that Intel pressured distributors to obey him he better ... Without this pressure, or feel they have more to gain than lose, it's probably the main reason behind this unexpected availability. This also explains why Intel has not responded in a more straightforward (except in the case of these specific cards) and adopts a position of near laissez-faire.