Intel today officially launched the 2010 Intel Core processor family, including the laptop-use Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7, formerly known as “Arrandale”.
The new chips are the first in the mainstream PC market to feature the main processor, integrated graphics, and the memory controller on a single CPU package, and are produced using the new 32-nanometer technology. These innovations are made to increase laptops’ computing performance while decreasing power consumption and heat.
Unlike the recently released Core i7 “Clarksfield” 45nm quad-core products, the “Arrandale” Core i3, i5, and i7 have dual CPU cores.
The i5 and i7 mobile series incorporate TurboBoost technology that automatically allows processor cores to run faster than the base operating frequency if it’s operating below power, current, and temperature limits. TurboBoost is not present in the Core i3 series.
Another technology for performance improvement is Hyper-Threading, allowing two parallel threads per CPU core. It’s available on all “Arrandale” units.
Clock speeds and power consumption (TDP) of the new processors range from 1.06GHz and 18W on an ultra-low voltage model to 2.66GHz (up to 3.33GHz w/TurboBoost) and 35W on the fastest full-voltage CPU. The cache size is 3MB on the Core i3 and Core i5, whereas the Core i7 “Arrandale” has 4MB.
Intel’s integrated graphics on the 2010 Core chips is capable to deliver high-definition video playback and “mainstream and casual 3D gaming”, according to the company. The GPU operating frequencies vary, depending on processor model.
Furthermore, the notebook platform supports Switchable Graphics, allowing users to switch between power-saving integrated and higher-performance dedicated GPU on the fly, without having to reboot the system.
The CPUs are paired with the new Intel 5 Series chipset, the company’s first single-chip chipset solution. Additionally, the 2010 laptop platform includes the updated Wi-Fi and WiMAX wireless modules, as well as the optional vPro system management technology on the Core i5 and i7.
Select “Arrandale” processors are already available in some laptops in the US market.
Note: This article was published on 12/17/2010 and updated on 01/07/2010.