“Intel (INTC) is continuing to court the open-source software
development community by releasing the IA-64 Architecture
reference.”
“The new Web page allows non-Intel engineers to download white
papers and developers’ interface guides covering the company’s
upcoming IA-64 class of 64-bit microprocessors. Developers must
register to gain greater access to the hardware specifications but
do not need to sign a nondisclosure agreement.”
“Given Linux’s enormous momentum in the server marketplace,
however, Intel has taken steps to shake off its image as
Microsoft’s perpetual hardware sidekick. In addition to being
one of the first companies to invest in Red Hat (RHAT) back in
1998, Intel has also forged partnerships with VA Linux (LNUX),
TurboLinux and SuSE to give Linux engineers a sneak preview at the
IA-64 architecture.”