Intel event gives hacks paper launch info

On May 22-23rd, Intel held an event in Munich Germany for the top European reviewers. Intel had on-hand about 15 Conroe 2.6GHz systems. The journalists were allowed to tinker with the systems and run a wide variety of benchmarks for the 2 days. Intel provided all hardware and software. The intent was for the reviewers to evaluate the systems and post a review on June 4th disclosing their benchmarking results.

Key Points
Intel notified them that the embargo date for their review was June 4th
Processor availability would be some time in July
Reviewers will receive review units "at a later date" (whether it's before or after
June 4th is unknown, but it appears to be after June 4th since reviewers were instructed to post the review based on the event system evaluation)

This strategy by Intel demonstrates serious problems and desperation for Intel.

Indicates low yields at 2.6GHz---Why can't Intel find a few hundred 2.6GHz processorsto send to reviewers?

Why does Intel have to control the benchmarking environment? It is not an objective review methodology with Intel controlling the systems and software. Credibility is seriously in question.

Looks like another desperate paper launch so they can give the impression of keeping pace with AMD. More reacting to AMD

Why has Intel adopted of late, the product launch strategy where reviews, product information, and performance analysis are posted many months prior to actual claimed availability? (Some of the Woodcrest systems used in the Intel Woodcrest benchmarking analysis won't be available until November 22nd)

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[All the hardware vendors play this game, it's not just Intel. It happens because of the willing collusion of hardware site journalists, eager to be there "first" with some news, and possibly also to garner some advertising from the "giants".

The journalists may not realise they are the unwitting victims of very cunning "marchitecture experts" from the hardware vendors, who, we can assure you, are only too willing to exploit such eagerness and play on the vanity of said hacks.

It's all part of the "total marchitecture experience" and does few favours for anyone, especially the poor bloody end users and, of course, readers, part of the famous "churn". Ed.]