More details have emerged regarding Intel’s next-generation Atom processor, codenamed Pineview and dubbed Z280 in some circles. It’s expected to launch in the second half of 2009 with a single-core version for netbooks and a dual-core version for nettops.
Built using a 45nm manufacturing process which allows the graphics core and memory controller to be integrated directly into the processor rather than being discrete components, Pineview will take up 60 percent less motherboard space than the Z270. The circuitboard design will be reduced to four layers from six further reducing costs for manufacturers. This seems to conflict with previous reports that the Pineview processor would be more expensive than the Z270.
It is reported that the clock speed will exceed the 1.6 GHz speed of the Z270–though hopefully well beyond 1.66 GHz–and the memory clock will jump from 533 Mhz to 667 Mhz. Pineview will still use the limited GMA 950 graphics core, but the video component’s clock rate will increase from 133 MHz to 200 MHz.
Even though Pineview will be faster and more powerful, the efficient manufacturing process translate to greater efficiency for the Atom chip. The power use at thermal peak is 7W compared to the current 8W and common usage uses only 2W, hopefully meaning longer battery lives for end consumers. And, if the Pineview Atom is cheaper than the Z270, it is nice to think we have have cheaper netbook prices in the near future as well.
via electronista
