Evolution in the Microprocessor Industry for Personal Computers: The Shift from CISC Chips to RISC Chips

The thesis examines the semiconductor industry, specifically focusing on microprocessor manufacturers for the personal computer market. The current technology in the industry, CISC microprocessors, have reached a price/performance limit. The industry is turning to RISC microprocessors for improved speed at lower costs. Intel, the current industry leader, is being challenged by AMD and Cyrix, who manufacture clones of Intel¹s microprocessors. In addition, Motorola, another giant in the industry, has teamed up with Apple and IBM to challenge Intel¹s dominance of the industry. Motorola is attempting to set a new microprocessor standard based on a RISC microprocessor, the Power PC. Intel must face the challenges of the clone microprocessor manufacturers and Motorola or risk losing its dominance of the industry