Intel to double video speed with Centrino 2?

The integrated graphics that form one of the key improvements to Intel's upcoming Centrino 2 notebook platform may perform twice as well as that in current systems, say new leaked benchmarks as well as specifications. While the chipmaker is already known to be upgrading the built-in graphics option with the GMA X4500 when Centrino 2 (nicknamed Montevina) appears in the spring, new tests point to twice the performance in synthetic 3D tests such as 3DMark06. The increase stems both from a redesign as well as sheer clock speed. On the top-end GM47 Express mainboard, the X4500 will be clocked at 640MHz versus just 500MHz for the X3100 used today.

The chipset is also known to provide improved support for software using newer DirectX 10 and OpenGL visual effects and will be introduced in a less expensive platform, the GM45 Express, which will clock the X4500 at 533MHz for smaller or less expensive notebooks. Every version will add hardware Blu-ray and HD DVD video decoding as well as hooks for DisplayPort and other display technologies just reaching the market.

A third mainboard, the GS45 Express, will run at a clock speed of just 266MHz but will be targeted at very small computers, such as ultraportables or small form factor desktops.

Intel has not set a formal release date for Centrino 2 but is currently expected to debut the chipset for the public on or near June 3rd, the first day of the influential Computex show in Taiwan. The platform is set to bring a faster 1,066MHz system bus, DDR3 memory support, and the option for a WiMAX long-range wireless chipset in addition to the X4500.

Filed under: computers, digital imaging
Other story tags: Intel, Centrino, Montevina