Intel to unveil next-generation chips

Intel will use this week's developer conference to unveil faster Xeon processors for low and mid-range servers, and tout upcoming 64-bit offerings.

Xeons, based on Pentium 4 architecture and found in units shipped in high volume by companies such as Compaq and Dell, will soon operate at 2.2GHz.

Also, the world's largest chip-maker will unveil networking chips aimed at providers of routers and other equipment.

A product code-named Castine will get an airing at the San Francisco event. It is expected to be shipped later this year.

The company's move up the food chain, to 64-bit processors that compete against powerful offerings from Compaq, IBM and Sun has had its problems, though the company will also talk about the upcoming McKinley iteration of its flagship Itanium range.

We'll be bringing you developments from the San Francisco event throughout this week