[Beowulf] Intel introducing BGA packaging

[Ellis H. Wilson III]

On 11/28/2012 09:22 AM, Hearns, John wrote:
> http://www.zdnet.com/intel-preparing-to-put-an-end-to-user-replaceable-cpus-7000008024/

Do we have any idea about whether or not they will even plan to release 
some of their cpus in oem packaging?  I.E., not on a mobo?

There are a class of modders out there willing and able to reflow BGAs, 
but they'll pretty much be out of luck if the only option is to buy 
another mobo to pull a CPU from.  That just gets stupid-expensive.

While the desktop-building part of me hates this, the AMD-advocate and 
cheap COTS beowulf part of me loves this.  Cheaper and more powerful 
mobo/cpu combos on newegg will make for nice setups around the house. 
I'll have to let my wife know -- she'll be stoked I'm sure :D.

The real key here is whether or not a market will exist for individual 
cpus still.  This isn't intel preparing to put an end to user 
replaceable cpus, this is intel making it harder for users to replace 
their cpus.  It won't be all that much harder if the market exists for 
individual cpus, but if it doesn't then even people equipped to do BGA 
swaps may be out of luck.  The rich and/or determined will still make it 
happen, in any case.  But I do suspect if AMD doesn't follow their lead 
much of this (admittedly niche) market may swing that direction.  We'll see.

Best,

ellis