Intel's six-core central processing unit known as the Core i7 980X was not launched a long time ago and, of course, Intel was careful not to make too many such chips. Given that it is aimed at enthusiasts, it makes sense to think that not many users will afford it, especially considering that the economy is still not completely back on its feet. Nevertheless, consumers might be surprised to hear that, despite all odds, the Gulftown actually sold so well that, at least in Europe, it is almost completely sold out.

According to a search made by Fudzilla, which included the United Kingdom, Germany and Austria, most retailers list the chip as out of stock, even though the actual product was launched only days ago. Also, according to CNET, the chip is in very short supply even in the United States and Japan, to the point where even such gaming entities as Alienware can't seem to get their hands on the chip. Of course, a product having a great success is not unheard of, but this chip sold out far too quickly for a device exclusively aimed at the ultra-high market.

Such a shortage of chips doesn't usually happen to the Santa Clara chip maker, especially when the processor in question costs 900 Euro. Most likely, the company predicted that there wouldn't be many orders for such an expensive device, especially considering that there aren't many, if any, games capable of taking advantage of so many cores. Ironically though, Intel definitely seems to be plagued by tight chip supply, with even its mobile processor stocks being severely challenged, as it was recently reported.

Considering the supposed state of the economy and, thus, the industry, it would have likely been more believable if this lack of availability had been caused by manufacturing issues or low yields instead of too strong a demand. These developments make one wonder just how uneven the recession impacted upon the different layers of the market. Of course, the sales also show that, perhaps, the economy is recovering faster than expected.

There's no word on when the availability of the chip improves.