IBM Corp is providing a customized PowerPC processor as the heart of Apple Computer Corp’s new iBook portable computer. The 300MHz PowerPC 750-based design uses IBM copper interconnect technology. IBM has lowered the voltage of the custom design, so that the chip consumes less power, an important consideration for a battery-powered device.
The deal shows the confidence that IBM has in its copper chip manufacturing process. As copper parts start to come to market, some manufacturers are reporting low or even zero yields. However, IBM is sticking to its guns with the technology it pioneered and has previously said that it has had no problems with yields (CI No 3,698). The colorful and curvaceous iBook is expected to be a big seller in the consumer market as Apple rides the wave of popularity that it created with the iMac.
