Intel launches Atom processor

Intel has launched the Intel Atom Processor N270 which would power an array of small-sized devices, from simple point-of-sale (POS) terminals to in-vehicle infotainment systems, digital signage, digital security systems and miniature medical patient monitoring systems. It is releasing some reference designs for development of local platforms based in Intel architecture.

The embedded hand held appliance reference design was targeted at portable appliances for areas, including sales force automation, financial inclusion, inventory management and general point-of-services applications in restaurants and airports.

The processor measures less than a 25-paisa coin in size and consumes less than 2.5 watt of power. R Ravichandran, Director (Sales), Intel South Asia informed that the single core processor is validated with Mobile Intel 945GSE Express chipset. He further added that there was tremendous opportunity for these smart solutions in the market as the number of Internet-connected devices reaches into billions, performance expectations rise and device size shrink.

Internet PC to cost Rs 5000

There is good news for those who want to use computer only for checking emails or such low end tasks. Internet PC will soon be a reality for such low-end tasks and will come at much lower costs without including high-profile advanced features of PC world.

Intel has recently announced launching of a new processor namely “Atom” in their just now concluded Intel Channel Conference (ICC). Atom is being designed by Intel, keeping in view of manufacturing only email enabled high power Internet PC. According to Intel, Atom is likely to be available in the market before end of September 2008. ICC is a platform for Intel to share it’s business findings and future business plans with it’s channel partners, which is presently figuring around 2000 in India. It is held twice a year across different centers in the country.

Once Atom is unveiled, making low-end Internet PC will no more take much time. Atom will take least power to operate and these will be highly efficient to look after email requirements. Owing to the low-power requirement and limited functionality, costs of the PC’s developed using Atom will be much lower, said one analyst. The chip will also find applications in mobile Internet devices, making mobile Internet more powerful and efficient. The new innovative technology of Intel will lead the way for making more powerful low-power processors in near future, market observers feel.

Indian Institute of Science have been working on a low cost computing device. After the participation of Intel in the connected Indian movement, internet access through broadband seems affordable for a common man.

The Minister of Communications and IT, Mr A Raja has announced that the low cost computing device will be based on Intel’s Atom and will be priced at about Rs. 5000.