Intel 2009 Annual Report Download - page 8

Table of Contents
Motherboards
We offer motherboard products designed for our desktop, server, and workstation platforms. A motherboard is the principal
board within a system, and typically contains the microprocessor, chipset, memory, and other components. The motherboard
also has connectors for attaching devices to the bus, which is the subsystem that transfers data between various components of
a computer.
Wireless and Wired Connectivity
We offer wireless and wired connectivity products, including network adapters and embedded wireless cards, based on
industry-standard protocols used to translate and transmit data across networks. Wireless connectivity products based on WiFi
technology allow users to wirelessly connect to high-speed local area networks, typically within a close range. We have also
developed wireless connectivity products for both mobile and fixed networks based on WiMAX, a standards-based wireless
technology providing high-speed broadband connectivity that can link users and networks up to several miles apart.
Platforms
A platform typically includes a microprocessor, chipset, and enabling software, and may include additional hardware, services,
and support. In developing our platforms, we may include components made by other companies. Platforms based on our
latest generation Intel Core microarchitecture using our 32nm process technology integrate a memory controller and graphics
functionality into each microprocessor, and connect the microprocessor and other components with a high-speed interconnect.
We refer to certain platform brands within our product offerings as processor technologies.
Microprocessor and Platform Technologies
We offer features to improve microprocessor and platform capabilities that can enhance system performance and user
experience. For example, we offer technologies that can help information technology managers maintain, manage, and protect
enabled systems that are plugged into a power source and connected to a network, even if a computer is turned off or has a
failed hard drive or operating system. Additional features can enable virtualization, in which a single computer system can
function as multiple virtual systems by running multiple operating systems and applications. Virtualization can consolidate
workloads and provide increased security and management capabilities. To take advantage of these and other features that we
offer, a computer system must have a microprocessor that supports a chipset and BIOS (basic input/output system) that use the
technology, and software that is optimized for the technology. Performance will vary depending on the system hardware and
software used.
Additional Product Offerings
NAND flash memory
is a specialized type of memory component primarily used in portable memory storage devices, digital
camera memory cards, solid-state drives, and other devices. NAND flash memory retains information even when the power is
off, and provides faster access to data than traditional hard drives. Because flash memory does not have any moving parts, it
tolerates bumps and shocks better than devices such as rapidly spinning disk drives.
Network processors
are advanced, fully programmable processors used in networking equipment to rapidly manage and
direct data moving across networks and the Internet.
Software products include operating systems, middleware, and tools used to develop, run, and manage a wide variety of
enterprise, consumer, embedded, and handheld devices. In addition, we offer software development tools, designed to
complement our latest hardware technologies, that help enable the creation of applications.
Healthcare products
are technology-enabled devices for healthcare providers and personal healthcare that are designed to
connect people and information to improve patient care and safety.
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