40GB PlayStation 3 to use 65nm tech

The 40GB version of the PlayStation 3, going on sale November 2nd, should run at lease somewhat more smoothly than its predecessors, reports say. Sony is said to be switching to smaller 65nm circuitry in the revised console, reducing power consumption from 200W to 135W. Aside from wasting less energy, this should make the system cooler, which Sony is taking advantage of by shrinking the heatpipe. As part of the revision, the motherboard is being replaced, and a new battery will power the clock when the rest of the console is off.

The 40GB PS3 is otherwise stripped-down from the current 60GB and 80GB models, lacking backwards compatibility with PS2 games, as well the storage card reader and half the USB ports. There is still no word on whether it will come bundled with the rumble-ready DualShock 3 controller. It will sell for $400. [via DailyTech]