Workstations and PCs: the debate continues

Makers of workstations and personal computers (PCs) are going head-to-head in wooing automobile manufacturers. There are two major differences between the two tools. One is that workstations consist of a high-performance microprocessor, a sufficient memory, rapid networking and fast high-resolution, high-quality graphics. Another distinction is that the software used in workstations relies on an advanced, high-performance operating system. Engineering workstations usually employ 64-bit RISC processors while PCs are starting to shift to 32-bit CPUs. However, although high processor speed at low cost is desirable, scalability may be more important. Ultimately, the platform chosen should depend on the engineering applications the manufacturer and its customers will use. The competition between PCs and workstations will result in faster microprocessor speeds, wonderful graphics, more multimedia capabilities and lower hardware prices.
Faster microprocessor speeds, fabulous graphics, broad multimedia capabilities, and relatively dirt-cheap hardware prices are the results of the ongoing jockeying in the race to win the workstation market. The automotive [...]