MIPS Computer Systems Inc is expecting first silicon on its 64-bit R4000 chip from NEC Corp next week, but word is they rushed the tape out to meet an end-of-quarter milestone and aren’t really as far along as most people would be at this point. So how functioning the thing will be is questionable. Apparently they’re expected to have a lot of cleaning up to do and will effectively be making the real submission later. Gossip also says the R4000’s a big 16 by 18mm that would probably have to sell for $1,000 to $2,000 – more suitable for a $25,000 box than low-end $5,000 to $10,000 machine.
