HKEPC: Intel to Launch “McCaslin” UMPC Platform at IDF

HKEPC reports that Intel has planned to launch a new chipset codenamed “McCaslin” and “Stealey” processor – both designed for use in ultra-mobile PCs – at the Intel Developer Forum (IDF) in Beijing, China, on 17th/18th of April.

The forthcoming platform has 14mm x 19mm dimensions reportedly, which is 78 percent smaller than space occupied by the previous models, so we can expect smaller and lighter UMPCs on the market.

Also, Intel’s McCaslin provides better power-saving, according to HKEPC’s sources.

“The highest TDP of the new platform is only up to 9.3W and the average is 1.95W, while that of the previous model was 12.6W and 3.4 respectively. Satisfying results has been achieved as the runtime of battery is greatly heightened from 2-3 hours to 4-5 hours,” the report says.

The “McCaslin” adopts the north bridge codenamed “Little River” with 400MHz front-side bus. It enables the use of up to 1GB of DDR2 400 memory. The “Little River” contains Intel GMA X3000 integrated graphics, supporting the DirectX 9.0c and Windows Vista Premium with its Aero 3D interface.

Its south bridge adopts ICH 7U which is the simplified version of ICH7-M. ICH 7U reportedly supports “8 groups of USB 2.0 ports”.

Intel’s next generation platform also provides support for new add-ons such as WiMax, GPS and TV Tuner.

The “Stealey” processor is based on Pentium M technology, and will provide clock speeds of 600MHz and 800Mhz, as well as 512KB of L2 Cache. The new CPU features Enhanced Intel SpeedStep processor technology and Deeper Sleep Support to enhance power-saving.

The forthcoming UMPCs based on Intel “McCaslin” will feature screens in range from 5-inch to 8-inch, according to published slides.