Intel unveils new integrated `Atom' processor for small computer systems

Intel Corporation today unveiled a new `Atom' processor that integrates graphics and memory controller in a central processing unit (CPU) in small laptops and netbooks, thereby helping to reduce power consumption by up to 20 per cent.

"The high level of integration and its 45nm size enables significant power reduction, performance improvements and smaller package size like netbooks," Intel said in release.

"The N450 is a single core Atom processor with 512k of L2 cache and a 7 watt total kit TDP including chipset. The D410 for entry-level desktop PCs is a single-core Atom processor with 512k of L2 cache and a 12-watt total kit TDP, including chipset, and the D510 for entry-level desktop PCs is a dual core Atom processor with 1meg L2 cache and a 15-watt total kit TDP including chipset. The new chips all run at 1.66GHz," Intel said.

Pricing and availability will be announced in January as systems become available from OEMs, the release added.

According to Intel, the new chip would offer an average  20 per cent saving in power consumption over current systems, enabling longer battery life in netbooks.
 
Major OEMs that account for a large share of netbook designs, including ASUS, Acer, Dell, Toshiba, Fujitsu, Lenovo, Samsung and Cindy Ng, have committed to use the new platform for notebooks, Intel said.

"Intel has been working closely with mobile operators and modem vendors to advance 3G capabilities in netbooks in established and emerging markets. To-date approximately a dozen service providers offer netbooks in various markets, and the numbers are expected to grow with the newest platform," the release pointed out.