The UltraSPARC III processor sculpts Sun's three big bets - massive scalability, continuous real-time and integrated hardware/software stack - into silicon. The UltraSPARC III chip was designed from the ground up to act as the stem cell for new generations of system products that implement the Net Effect vision.Key design features in the UltraSPARC III processor that bring these concepts to life include: multidimensional collection of best-in-class performance metrics when compared to competing 64-bit workstation and server-class processors; linear performance gains in multiprocessing systems into the hundreds of processors range; "design for bandwidth" design goals emphasizing low-latency, maximum data throughput and support for massive cache memories; initial versions at 900, 750 and 600 MHz clock speeds with a published roadmap of versions to 1.5+ GHz; extensive error correction and isolation features including a new "Uptime Bus"; synergistic design process involving UltraSPARC processor, Solaris Operating Environment and Sun system products design teams; binary compatibility for applications written for earlier versions of UltraSPARC processor and Solaris Operating Environment technology systems.