Intel launches 'Westport' project

Intel, the world's largest chip maker, has announced details of the company's new €18.6m Westport project.

The project, which involves the development of a next generation network processor for the Intel Group, is aimed at the emerging 3G, wireless access and broadband markets.

It is hoped the project will significantly increase Intel's product leadership in these segments.

Aspects of the Westport design include the first use of 90 nanometre technology for network processor design, and the first release of customer programmable micro-engine software technology.

The Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mary Harney, unveiled the details of the project at the Intel Communications Europe base in Shannon, and commented: "The Intel Communications Europe Westport project is one of the largest R&D projects undertaken in Ireland in recent times, and is exactly the type of knowledge-driven project that the Government aims to encourage under its R&D Capability Programme."

As a result of the investment, Intel will receive a grant of €3.1m from the Government's R&D Capability Scheme.