Archive for Intel Core 2 Duo

Intel Splits The Atom

Posted in Bits 'n bobs with tags , , , , , , , on March 3, 2008 by chopperarris

White coats at the world’s largest processor monopoly manufacturer have built the smallest processor using the smallest transistors.The Intel Atom family of low-power processors designed specifically for mobile Internet devices (MIDs) and a new class of simple and affordable Internet-centric computers arriving later this year.

Together, these new market segments represent a significant new opportunity for world domination to grow the overall market for Intel silicon, using the Intel Atom processor as the foundation. The company also announced the Intel Centrino Atom processor technology brand for MID platforms, consisting of multiple chips that claim to improve Internet in a pocketable device.

The Intel Atom processor is based on an entirely new microarchitecture designed specifically for small devices and low power, while maintaining the Intel Core 2 Duo instruction set compatibility when using a standard PC. The design also includes support for multiple threads for better performance and increased system responsiveness, said Intel. All of this on a chip that measures less than 25mm², making it Intel’s smallest and lowest power processor yet to dat. Up to 11 Intel Atom processor die - the wee slivers of silicon packed with 47 million transistors each - would fit in an area the size of an American penny.

Super Nova!

Posted in Desktop PC with tags , , , , , , , , on February 27, 2008 by chopperarris

What better way to spend your hard-earned cash than ASUS’ Nova P22. The space-saving computer features an Intel Core 2 Duo processor and 802.11n. More importantly, it looks amazing and operates at a mere 25 decibels (even dogs will need subtitles). Its diminutive footprint and slot-loading drive are enough to seal the deal.

Most small form factor personal computers (SFFPC) struggle between computing power, cooling and noise issues. Not so with the Nova P22. Requiring only 122 cubic inches of space, it adopts solid capacitors, a unique L-shape heat dissipation module, S-shape heat pipes and three AI fans. What a geekfest!

A pair of built-in speakers housed at the front of the machine offer unobtrusive audio output, and for home theatre configurations the Nova supports 5.1 analogue or digital surround output with Dolby Digital Live or DTS connect technology. Available in glossy pearl white and piano black, the Nova is smaller and lighter than most laptops so it’s dead easy to steal.