AMD follows Intel into next-generation processor designs

When AMD recently signed on a veteran chipmaking exec from IBM, it probably knew that a time-tested exec was needed to ensure it could transition its manufacturing to new nanotechnology processes, since both it and Intel are starting to change the way microchips and high-performance computer processors are made.

It's seriously a major shift in this field when the first new materials are starting to be used for newer chips -- the first changes in over 40 years.

Doug Grose, the new AMD exec in charge of technology development, said that the company has already made the first test chips using 45nm process technology. This is the first step in making more powerful chips with much smaller sizes. The recent move to "65nm process technology" -- yes, that's 65 nanometers -- is already fully developed and ready to ramp up according to Grose.

The move is now to 45nm technology, meaning even smaller chips with more powerful capabilities. Grose says that AMD will be producing early 45nm products probably in Q2 of 2008 -- a little over a year away. While Intel is moving to a new kind of technology for its 45nm chips, it's unclear what exact technology AMD will be using.