Sign in Subscribe
Computer industry

PowerPC-Based Computers Launch Amid Software Hurdles

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Next week, Motorola will launch its line of PowerPC-based computers, but initially, the availability of software for this format will be limited. Meanwhile, IBM has announced that its Power Personal Systems will not be made generally available until next year. The PowerPC range will run Microsoft Windows NT 3.5, but users may need to rely on software emulators to run old Windows programs. Microsoft is expected to recompile its future 32-bit Office and BackOffice software suites for PowerPC, as well as for other processors like Mips and Alpha.

Key Takeaways:

  • Motorola will launch its PowerPC-based computers next week, while IBM's Power Personal Systems will not be available until next year.
  • The PowerPC range will initially have limited software availability, with users potentially needing to use software emulators to run old Windows programs.
  • Microsoft plans to recompile its 32-bit Office and BackOffice software suites for PowerPC, as well as for Mips and Alpha processors.
  • Apple has confirmed that it will license its System 7 operating system (now renamed Mac OS) to cloners, but at the same time, PowerPC-based Macs will retain their unique features, making them incompatible with IBM and Motorola machines.
  • Apple, IBM, and Motorola are working on a common reference platform that can run various operating systems, but this may not necessarily mean seamless application compatibility.

Statistics:

  • IBM and Motorola's PowerPC-based machines will run Microsoft Windows NT 3.5.
  • Initially, very little software will be available in the PowerPC format.
  • Microsoft is expected to recompile its 32-bit Office and BackOffice software suites for PowerPC, Mips, and Alpha processors.
  • The Alpha AXP 21164 chip has 9.3 million transistors and an estimated performance of 330 (SPECint92) and 500 (SPECfp92).

Sources:

  • Motorola statement on PowerPC-based computers launch
  • IBM statement on Power Personal Systems availability
  • Microsoft announcement on 32-bit Office and BackOffice software suites recompilation
  • Apple statement on licensing System 7 operating system
  • DEC announcement on Alpha AXP 21164 chip performance

Read more