<< The HAMMER is supposed to run x86-32 code extremely efficiently. Hopefully the 15% speed boost over he K7 architecture is true. I'm having a hard time believing an 800fsb will add a 15% speed boost unless the K7 architecture is extremely cache starved as it is now. >>
First off, the 800fsb term is very misleading. Second, the 15% (or I've heard 25% actually) comes in 20% of it from the Integrated Memory controller, and 5% from other core enhancements. Now about the 800fsb. The 800fsb you speak of is still the connection between the CPU and the rest of the system, but it does not have the responsibility of maybe the most crucial thing of the fsb on todays CPU's, and that is moving data between the CPU and Memory. So really, a major part of the fsb's job has been taken away from the Hammer's because of the Integrated Memory Controller. One thing that this changes with this, is that today, as memory speed increases, that speed's usefulness would be limited by the fsb, however with Hammer theoretically, a SledgeHammer would be able to fully use for example 5.4GB/ps of bandy of Dual Channel PC2700 DDR, where as the Athlon would not be able to use it at all due to the fsb being limited. Just thought I'd add that.
Now, right now, roadmaps say there will be no 3GHz NW P4 until Q1 2003 until after CH's launch. Now, I see it very possible that Intel will move that up if ClawHammer hits the shelves in Q4 2002, we'll see.