Cliff,

Do you remember the recall of 1.13 GHz PIII Coppermine by Intel?

http://www.computerworld.com/action/...rticleId=49188

It was because Intel decided to shrink the Al interconnects to 0.18 micron, while IBM and AMD were switching to Cu interconnects at 0.18 micron in 2000. Additionally, when IBM and AMD were using SOI with 0.13 micron in 2001, Intel never used SOI. However, Intel seems to be a quick learner and takes lessons from the past mistakes. They have used high-k and metal gate transistor most extensively. Although those are not Intel's inventions, implementation of these inventions at production scale is a huge achievement. Intel and AMD have very different cost/efficiency criteria because of the difference in their production models and volume. I am wishing/hoping that AMD will get back to full competition with their new production model. Phenom II X4 starting at a price below $200 is a spectacular choice for the consumer.