Alternative CPU?

[Traveller]

Hi All.

Is there anything else out there besides Intel and AMD?

I've tried to find others on the web, but there seems to be hardly anything else available!

Thanks.

[Buffalo2102]

There are quite a few different CPU manufacturers but most concentrate on specialist applications like CPUs for ethernet switches, routers, graphics or proprietary industry machines.

Probably the best bet for a standard PC would be Centaur Technology - part of VIA. http://www.centtech.com/products.htm

You would need a compatible VIA motherboard, e.g. for a Centaur C7-D CPU you would need a motherboard with a VIA CN700 chipset.  If you do some Googling you should be able to find them available.

Buff

[Traveller]

Thanks Buffalo2102.

Yes, I am looking at a CPU for a standard PC.

Thanks for the suggestion; are there any others that I could take a look at?

[Chandler]

As Buff said the only real alternative CPU are those from VIA but they are not general purpose like AMD and Intel.  They are optimised for low power and small form factor PCs and do not have anywhere near the performance of AMD and Intel systems.

[Traveller]

Thanks Chandler; guess only two choices this area then.

[Carskick]

IBM and Motorola also make processors whose performance is comparible to Intel and AMD, though neither are x86 or x64 compatible.

Macs used to use Motorola CPUs, and the Playstation 3 uses an IBM cell chip. They are around, but AMD and intel are your only practical choices for a PC. And they are so cheap for the performance you get, why would you want anything else.  ;)