Microsoft Corp. is finally expected to formally announce that it will support AMD's 64-bit "Hammer" line in future operating systems, sources said Tuesday. Sources within AMD, Sunnyvale, Calif., said that the company will announce the Hammer support in a press conference tomorrow at 4:30 PM, after the market closes. In a notice sent to press and analysts, AMD described the press conference as one where the company 'answers the 64-bit question'
For AMD, Microsoft's support for the Hammer line is critical. Because the traditional 32-bit Athlon line will eventually be succeeded by the hybrid 32-bit/64-bit Hammer line, the Hammer will make up "perhaps two-thirds of our future business", according to statements made by W.J. "Jerry" Sanders III, AMD's outspoken chairman and chief executive.
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