Intel Details Atom Processors, Centrino Atom Platforms

by Anton Shilov
04/02/2008 | 09:23 AM

At the Intel Developer Forum in Shanghai, China, Intel Corp. unveiled details about its Intel Atom central processing units (CPUs) and also formally unveiled Intel Centrino Atom platform for mobile Internet devices (MIDs), the personal digital assistants (PDAs) of our times that Intel expects to revolutionize usage models of the Internet.

“Today is a historic day for Intel and the high-tech industry as we deliver our first-ever Intel Atom processor and surround it with a great package of technology. Mix in the incredible innovation coming from our fellow device makers and software vendors, and we will change the way consumers will come to know and access the World Wide Web,” said Anand Chandrasekher, Intel senior vice president and general manager of the ultra mobility group.

Intel Centrino Atom platform – formerly code-named Menlow – for ultra mobile systems is based on two components: Intel Atom processor (Silverthorne) as well as Intel system controller hub (SCH) that has integrated graphics core, supports peripheral buses as well as input-output capabilities. The first-generation Intel SCH has built-in graphics engine that supports 3D as well as hardware accelerated 720p and 1080i high-definition video decode capabilities. In addition, the chip supports PCI Express, USB and Secure Didital I/O bus.

Initially there will be five Intel Atom processors available:

• Intel Atom Z500 – 800MHz, 400MHz PSB, 512K L2 cache, 0.65W TDP, $45;
• Intel Atom Z510 – 1.1GHz, 400MHz FSB, 512K L2 cache, 2W TDP, $45;
• Intel Atom Z520 – 1.33GHz, 533MHz FSB, 512K L2 cache, 2W TDP, $65;
• Intel Atom Z530 – 1.6GHz, 533MHz FSB, 512K L2 cache, 2W TDP, $95;
• Intel Atom Z540 – 1.86GHz, 533MHz FSB, 512K L2 cache, 2.4W TDP, $160.

The dramatic low-power levels are achieved as a result of several major processor design power management techniques such as Intel Deep Power Down Technology (C6), CMOS mode, Split I/O power supply well as 45nm process technology.

Intel Atom processors are also designed for fan-less, small form factor devices for embedded applications such as in-vehicle infotainment systems, portable point-of-sale devices for retail and more rugged computing devices such as robotics for industrial manufacturing. For embedded applications, Intel will include longer 7-year life cycle support.

Intel does not plan to oblige device partners to integrate a certain communication technology into Intel Atom Centrino devices, though it expects that various manufacturers will install a range of wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, WiMAX and cellular data.

MIDs will allow consumers to communicate, entertain, access information and be productive on-the-go, and are expected to represent a new class of next-generation, Internet-based portable video players, navigation devices, converged tablets and other consumer products.

“The forthcoming MIDs, and some incredible longer-term plans our customers are sharing with us, will show how small devices can deliver a big Internet experience,” Mr. Chandrasekher added.