Happy Birthday, x86!

Computerworld:

June 5, 2008 (Computerworld) Thirty years ago, on June 8, 1978, Intel Corp. introduced its first 16-bit microprocessor, the 8086, with a splashy ad heralding "the dawn of a new era." Overblown? Sure, but also prophetic. While the 8086 was slow to take off, its underlying architecture -- later referred to as x86 -- would become one of technology's most impressive success stories.

Perhaps it's my geeky occupation but I don't consider it overblown. Microsoft and Intel changed the world, and I would put the 8086 right in there with the printing press, steam engine, wheel, and fire.

Harp -- one more time, if I may -- on T.J. Rodgers. Look at Moore's Law. Look at what happened in 30 years. If we get the same curve from photovoltaics, energy will be virtually free in 2030.

UPDATE: Some birthday present

The Federal Trade Commission has opened a formal antitrust investigation on Intel Corp.'s business practices in the microprocessor market, a move long sought by smaller rival Advanced Micro Devices Inc.

I'd say some rent-seeking by AMD, but I am not a big antitrust guy.

Technology Posted by jk at June 5, 2008 10:40 AM