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Amd: Suse Linux Support For Next-Gen Processors - Product Announcement

SuSE Linux AG has submitted enhancements to the official Linux kernel to support AMD's x86-64 instruction set. The Linux kernel is the fundamental source code upon which all Linux operating systems are based.

AMD's next-generation processor, code-named "Hammer", is designed to provide unprecedented levels of performance for both 32-bit and 64-bit software applications. "Hammer" processor-based systems will grant business and home users the benefit of long-term investment protection as these systems are designed to enable seamless transition from a 32-bit to 64-bit environment. AMD expects to begin shipping the first version of the "Hammer" family of processors at the end of 2002.

SuSE Linux AG has been the primary developer working to add support of AMD's x86-64 technology to the Linux kernel, Linux development tools, and other Linux software. AMD expects the changes to be incorporated into Linux's retail operating systems based on the Linux kernel version 2.6 or later.

"We are excited to be working with AMD to support their next-generation processors based on the x86-64 technology. We have reached an important milestone today towards the future availability of 64-bit Linux operating systems on the `Hammer' platform," said Andreas Jaegar, lead project manager, SuSE Linux AG.

"With support for AMD's future processors in the official Linux tree, Linux users everywhere will appreciate being able to run their native x86-64 applications and their existing 32-bit x86 applications," said Linus Torvalds, creator of Linux.

"AMD continues to gain support from the Linux development community for applications as they build support for future 32- and 64-bit applications into the Linux operating system," said Wayne Meretsky, manager of Software R&D and AMD Fellow. "SuSE's revisions to the Linux operating system are key to simultaneous support of 32-bit and 64-bit applications on the `Hammer' platform."

"The Linux community has supported AMD's x86-64 technology from the very beginning. We appreciate the feedback that SuSE and others have given to our `Hammer' processor engineering teams," said Richard Heye, vice president of Platform Engineering and Infrastructure for AMD's Computation Products Group. "AMD continues to work closely with Linux developers to help ensure that 64-bit applications and operating systems are available for use on the `Hammer' platform."

AMD's straightforward approach to 64-bit computing builds upon the x86 instruction set, one of the industry's most proven and widely supported technologies. AMD x86-64 technology is designed to support applications that address large amounts of physical and virtual memory, such as high performance servers, database management systems, and CAD tools. The x86-64 technology seamlessly integrates into the current computing and support environment, and is designed to enable enterprises to deploy high performance 64-bit capable systems.