R580+ will not be 80nm – ATI sticks to 90nm

R580+ is expected to be a short stop for ATI before it will launch its next generation graphics circuit R600. The latest rumors about R580+ was that ATI would introduce a new manufacturing process, 80nm, with this circuit. Now it seems that this information was incorrect, but ATI will continue using its 90nm technology. The 80nm information apparently came from a blurry screenshot. Several sources states that R580+ will be made with 90nm technology, but ATI will rework the circuit design to be able to get more performance out of it and reclaim the performance throne. In other words, it seems ATI is not aiming to lower the power consumption but is aiming to improve the performance foremost. If this is correct the first samples should appear in July and the cards in August.

Source: The Inquirer