Intel Corporation today introduced the first five Intel Atom processors and Centrino Atom platform for Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs) and embedded computing solutions.
The five Atom processors, codenamed “Silverthorne”, are the Z500 with 800MHz clock speed, Z510 at 1.1GHz, Z520 at 1.33GHz, Z530 at 1.6GHz, and Z540 at 1.86GHz. Power consumption of “Intel’s smallest and the world’s fastest chip under 3 watts” ranges from 0.65W to 2.4W, depending on model. All of the announced Atom CPUs have 512KB of L2 cache. The lower end z500 and z510 have a 400MHz front side bus, while the others feature a 533MHz FSB.
The Intel Atom Z500 and Z510 are priced at $45. The Z520, Z530, and Z540 cost $65, $95, and $160 respectively.
Atom chips are based on 45-nanometer production technology. They support Enhanced Intel SpeedStep technology, and select SKUs support Intel Hyper-Threading technology.
Along with the Atom CPUs, Intel Centrino Atom technology includes the Intel System Controller Hub, a single-chip with integrated graphics.
According to the company, the Intel System Controller Hub is a “ground-up, highly integrated low-power solution that features advanced low-power 3-D graphics features, hardware accelerated 720p and 1080i HD video decode capabilities, Intel High Definition Audio, and a combination of PC and handheld I/O capabilities such as PCI Express, USB Host and Client, and SDIO”.
The Intel Centrino Atom, known as “Menlow” platform, also enables manufacturers to integrate a range of wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, WiMAX and cellular data.
Manufacturers around the world are planning to ship Intel-based MIDs beginning this summer.